Source edition
Plutarch. Moralia, Vol. IV. Babbitt, Frank Cole, editor. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press; London: William Heinemann Ltd., 1936 (printing).
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA (per Perseus's terms)
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
"On the Glory of the Athenians" is an essay arguing that the true source of Athens' historical greatness lies not in its celebrated arts, poetry, or oratory, but rather in the actual military achievements of its generals. The author asserts that mimetic arts such as history, painting, and poetry derive their value only from the grand deeds they depict. He criticizes the excessive public expenditure on theatrical productions, contrasting the playwrights with the generals who preserved the state through battle. Finally, by contrasting the meticulous speechwriting of renowned orators with the decisive actions of military commanders, the work concludes that noble action is far superior to eloquent words in securing lasting glory.