Source edition
Isocrates, Vol. 3. Van Hook, Larue, editor. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd., 1945 (printing).
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA (per Perseus's terms)
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This work is a letter-style oration addressed by the Athenian rhetorician Isocrates to King Philip II of Macedon, advising him on the state's direction and his personal safety. The author begins by warning Philip against risking his life in reckless battles, arguing that ensuring the ruler's safety is the key to maintaining national power and securing final victory. Drawing on historical precedents, Isocrates urges the king to settle minor conflicts with neighboring barbarians and focus instead on the grand campaign against Persia. Furthermore, he emphasizes that establishing a friendly alliance with Athens is indispensable for the success of this expedition. By asserting that Athenian support will solidify the king's power and bring true happiness, the work presents a political vision for Greek unity and a united front against the Persian Empire.