On the Property of Eraton

Lysias. Lamb, W.R.M., editor. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press; London: William Heinemann Ltd., 1930.

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Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.

This work is a courtroom speech from ancient Athens, in which the plaintiff seeks to recover a debt from property that has been confiscated by the state. The plaintiff explains the background of how Eraton's father borrowed money from the plaintiff's grandfather but failed to repay it. Since Eraton's estate has now become subject to state confiscation, the plaintiff petitions for the return of a portion of the confiscated property to satisfy their legitimate claim. Throughout the oration, the plaintiff presents evidence and testimonies to prove the existence of the debt, emphasizing the legality and justice of their demand. The speech concludes with an appeal to the jurors for a fair verdict that protects a citizen's rightful claim without harming the public interest.