Download Pericles` Funeral Oration

Pericles’ Funeral Oration
Our constitution does not copy the laws of neighbouring states; we are rather a pattern to others than imitators
ourselves. Our government favours putting power in the hands of the many instead of the few; this is why it is
called a democracy. If we look to the laws, they afford equal justice to all in their private lives. Advancement in
public life falls to one’s reputation for competence; class considerations should not be allowed to interfere with
merit, nor again does poverty hold any back. If a man is able to serve the state, he is not hindered by the
insignificance of his financial condition.
The freedom which we enjoy in our government extends also to our ordinary life. There, far from exercising a
jealous surveillance over each other, we do not feel called upon to be angry with our neighbour for doing what
he likes. But all this freedom in our private lives does not make us lawless citizens. Against this fear of chaos is
our chief safeguard, teaching us to obey the government and the laws, particularly those that are in place for
the protection of the oppressed. We belong to a code which, although unwritten, cannot be broken without
falling into disgrace.
Further, we provide plenty of means for the mind to refresh itself from business. We celebrate the elegance of
our establishments as a daily source of pleasure and that helps to banish any wickedness from society. We
cultivate refinement without extravagance and knowledge with a purpose. Wealth we employ more for use than
for show, and place the real disgrace of poverty in not trying to end it. Our public men have, besides politics,
their private affairs to attend to, and our ordinary citizens, though occupied with the pursuits of industry, are
still fair judges of public matters. For, unlike any other nation, regarding him who takes no part in these duties
not as unambitious but as useless. Those who take no interest in the affairs of their country are not minding
their own business, but have no business in that state.
We Athenians look on discussion not as a stumbling-block in the way of action, but as an indispensable means
to any wise action. Courage will surely defined by those who best know the difference between hardship and
pleasure and yet are never tempted to shrink from danger. In generosity we are equally singular, acquiring our
friends by conferring, not by receiving, favours. And it is only the Athenians, who, fearless of consequences,
give up their benefits not to speed up the process, but because of their confidence in freedom.
In short, I say that as a city we are the school of Greece. While I doubt if the world can produce a man who,
where he has only himself to depend upon, is equal to so many emergencies, and graced by so happy a
versatility, as the Athenian. And that this is not mere boasting, but plain matter of fact, the power of the state
acquired by these habits is proven the greatest. For Athens alone is found when tested to be greater than her
reputation. Such is the Athens for which these men, in the their determination not to lose her, nobly fought and
died; and may every one of their survivors be ready to suffer in her cause.
Questions: (20 Marks Total)
Answer the following questions in full sentences with proper spelling and grammar.
1. How does Pericles define democracy? (1)
2. According to Pericles, which is more important for leaders – Social class or ability? Define what is
meant by these terms. (2)
3. a. What is meant by an unwritten code of a group? (1)
b. List three unwritten rules that govern your group. (3)
4. What does Pericles means in the italicised passage? (1)
5. Give three reasons why does Pericles believe that Athens is the greatest of cities. (3)
6. What is the final message in Pericles’ speech? What do true citizens need to be ready to do? (2)
7. In a well thought out paragraph, explain whether Canadian citizens should be forced to participate in
the “affairs of the state.” Does forcing people to partake in society make society better, or does it go
against the democratic ideal of freedom? For the idea of the “affairs of the state” consider actions such
as voting, jury duty, community service, and serving in the army.
Ensure your answer states a clear opinion in an introductory sentence, presents two clear supporting
reasons, and ends with a concluding sentence. (7)