Source edition
Lysias. Lamb, W.R.M., editor. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press; London: William Heinemann Ltd., 1930.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This work is a forensic oration delivered in an Athenian law court, prosecuting Ergocles, a former associate of the general Thrasybulus, for corruption and treason. The orator begins by detailing Ergocles' specific offenses, including the embezzlement of public funds and the extortion of allied cities during their naval expedition. As the speech progresses, the prosecutor anticipates that the defendant will attempt to secure an acquittal or leniency by appealing to his past services in restoring the Athenian democracy. The speaker strongly refutes this defense, arguing that past merits cannot excuse current betrayal and corruption against the state. Ultimately, he urges the jurors to set aside pity and impose the death penalty, emphasizing that their verdict must serve as a stern warning to other public officials.