Greek Orators VI: Apollodorus Against Nearia: [Demosthenes] 59 : Book Review

"Greek Orators VI" by Apollodorus is a captivating collection of speeches from prominent ancient Greek orators. This book provides a unique and insightful glimpse into the art of persuasive speaking in Ancient Greece, offering readers a chance to understand the political and social atmosphere of the time.

One of the highlights of this book is the inclusion of speeches by well-known orators like Isocrates, Demosthenes, and Lysias. These speeches not only showcase the orators' skills, but also shed light on the historical context of the era. Through their words, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the issues that influenced ancient Greek society.

Apollodorus brilliantly supplements the speeches with helpful commentary. This commentary provides crucial background information, clarifies certain points, and offers valuable insights into the orators' rhetorical techniques. It effectively guides readers through the complexities of the speeches and enhances the overall reading experience.

Moreover, the book emphasizes the significance of oratory skills in ancient Greek society. It explores how public speaking was not only a means of persuasion, but also a way to exert influence, gain power, and shape political discourse. By examining these speeches, readers can develop a profound appreciation for the pivotal role that orators played in shaping historical events.

In conclusion, "Greek Orators VI" is a must-read for anyone enthusiastic about ancient Greek history, rhetoric, or public speaking. Apollodorus's compilation of speeches and his insightful commentary make this book both informative and engaging. It offers a valuable glimpse into the power of words and the significance of oratory skills in ancient Greece. With its clear and accessible presentation, this book provides an enriching experience for readers to explore the richness of ancient Greek oratory.

What are readers saying?

Greek Orators VI by Apollodorus has received a range of opinions from readers. This book, which delves into the world of ancient Greek oratory, has been commended by some for its thoroughness and scholarly approach. These readers found it to be a valuable resource, praising Apollodorus for covering a wide range of orators and including translations of their works. They appreciated the book's depth and comprehensive nature, providing a solid foundation for further research.

However, not all readers share this sentiment. Some expressed frustration with the book's dense and challenging content. They found it difficult to follow and felt that the academic writing style made it inaccessible. These readers felt that the book was better suited for scholars and experts in the field, rather than casual readers.

Another aspect of criticism centered around the translations in Greek Orators VI. Some readers felt that the language used in the translations was outdated and failed to capture the essence of the original texts. They suggested that a more contemporary and accessible translation would greatly improve the overall reading experience.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still found value in Greek Orators VI. They appreciated the meticulous research and wealth of information provided about Greek oratory. These readers recommended the book for individuals with a specific interest in the subject matter and a willingness to engage with complex academic writing.

In conclusion, Greek Orators VI by Apollodorus has elicited a mix of reviews from readers. While some praised its comprehensive coverage and detailed research, others found it dense and challenging. Overall, the book appears to be best suited for scholars and experts in the field of ancient Greek oratory.

GreekOratorsVI AncientGreekLiterature ClassicalOratory