Source edition
Demosthenes. Orationes, Vol. I. Butcher, S. H., editor. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1903.
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 powerful oration addressing the Athenian citizens, urging them to take immediate military and financial action against the growing threat of Philip of Macedon. The author begins by encouraging the citizens, arguing that their past negligence is precisely the ground for hope if they change their ways and prepare proactively. Throughout the speech, he proposes a practical plan that includes establishing a standing force of infantry, cavalry, and triremes, alongside strategies for their funding and winter quarters. He sharply criticizes the reactive and disorganized military efforts of Athens, comparing them to the clumsy boxing of barbarians who only protect where they have just been hit. Ultimately, he calls on the citizens to stop relying on empty rumors and instead courageously lead the campaigns themselves to strike directly at Philip's territory.