Essay on Power of Respect in Pericles Leadership of Athens

Respect, it is a very simple gesture; however the individual who chooses to be respectful can gain a lot more in return. This was proven through the success of an Athenian political leader, Pericles, who was known for getting his argument across without offending the listener. The gift of communication was something Pericles learned to use to his own advantage. His well worded speeches can be found on the pages of the History of the Peloponnesian War by Thucydides, where it is clear that his sharp tongue and outspoken personality have played a key role in his political career. Through up rises and down fall Pericles continued to lead Athens and never spoke negatively about his city. His nationalism proved the love he had towards his home†¦show more content†¦Everything Pericles did was out of humane means and out of love for his nation. This alone plays a key factor in why he was re-elected general year after year. His sincere personality was shown before his election when a s stated by Plutarch he refused to go directly into politics â€Å"since he was rich, of brilliant lineage, and had friends of the greatest influence, he feared that he might be ostracized† (Plut.Per.7) instead he â€Å"devoted himself rather to a military career, where he was brave and enterprising† (Plut.Per.7). After his outstanding military performance, Pericles began to dedicate more time to politics. As written in Thucydides’ book, Pericles was chosen to make a speech at the public burial of the fallen soldiers. He was highly intellectual and generally respectable, making him the perfect candidate for this responsibility. In his speech, Pericles, addressed not only the ones who passed away in that battle, but made sure to mention the importance of other individuals who had a great influence on these soldiers. He began by talking about their ancestors and how it was through â€Å"their courage and their virtues, [they have been handed], a free countryâ₠¬  (Thuc.2.36). He believed that they deserved praise for the foundation that they set for Athens. Pericles believed that without the hard work and blood shed of the generations before him the state would not be able to take care of itself in peace, let alone in war. LaterShow MoreRelatedPericles And Alexander The Great1925 Words   |  8 Pages14, 2016 Lessons in Leadership – Pericles and Alexander the Great Pericles and Alexander the Great are known as two Greek Icons who developed Greece into one of the most prestigious empires in history. During their time, Greece was vastly advanced and influenced western civilization today. The first leader to unselfishly use the political system of democracy, Pericles wanted to strengthen Greece influence around the world and pushed for other states to adopt democracy. 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