Source edition
Cornelius Nepos. Cornelii Nepotis Vitae. Fleckeisen, Alfred; Halm, Karl, editors. Leipzig: Teubner, 1886.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA (per Perseus's terms)
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This biography depicts the turbulent life, noble character, and tragic end of the Athenian statesman and general Phocion. The first half highlights his integrity, depicting how he steadfastly refused lavish gifts from King Philip of Macedon and chose a life of honorable poverty, earning the title of "the Good." However, the latter half details how he gradually lost the trust of the citizens due to diplomatic missteps and involvement with political rivals. Caught in the factional struggles of Athens and the political shifts of Macedon, Phocion is ultimately accused and sentenced to death without even being granted an opportunity to defend himself. The work concludes on a poignant note, showing how the once-celebrated leader falls from power and is buried by the hands of slaves, illustrating the ruthlessness of politics and the volatility of human fortune.