Lecture Notes: The Story of Pericles and the Virtue of Benevolence

Introduction

• Agariste's Dream: In 495 BC, Agariste dreamt of giving birth to a lion, portending the greatness of her son, Pericles.
• Sources: Historians Herodotus and Plutarch recorded the omen.
• Pericles became one of the greatest leaders during Athens' Golden Age.
• His story exemplifies the virtue of benevolence.

Background

• Noble Lineage: Pericles was born into Athenian nobility.
  • Mother: From the Alkameonidai family.
  • Father: A military hero and politician.
• Destined for Greatness: Not just due to his lineage, but personal qualities.

Pericles' Leadership Style

• Comparison to Kimon:
  • Kimon was a strong leader, an admiral, and war hero.
  • Kimon impressed the aristocracy with might and wealth.
• Benevolent Leadership:
  • Pericles used his influence for the common good.
  • Focused on justice, welfare, and arts.

Key Reforms by Pericles

• Judicial Reform: Required jury trials to ensure fair convictions.
• Military Compensation: Secured pay for soldiers, supported patriotism.
• Arts Access: Made theater accessible to the poor, promoting cultural education.

The Golden Age of Pericles

• Achievements: Enhanced prosperity and cultural achievements, such as the Parthenon.
• Spartan Rivalry: Tensions with Sparta led to the Peloponnesian War.
  • Pericles' defensive strategy: Retreated Athenians behind city walls.

The Plague and Pericles' Final Days

• Athens Plague: Devastating impact on the population during the siege.
• Pericles' Response:
  • Remained with his people, leading and supporting them despite personal risks.
  • Showed resilience and commitment until contracting the plague himself.

Legacy of Benevolence

• Final Reflection: Pericles valued kindness over achievements.
  • Proud not of prosperity but that no Athenian wore mourning because of his actions.
• Virtue of Benevolence: Saint Augustine’s quote highlights the righteous use of power.
• Impact: Pericles’ leadership marked by using wealth and power for the common good.

Conclusion

• Moral Lesson: Encourages using personal resources or talents benevolently.
• Further Learning: References "Famous Men of Greece" for more stories.

Additional Resources

• Memoria Press: Source of the "Famous Men of Greece" book.