Publisher's Synopsis
Menexenus is a Socratic dialogue written by the ancient Greek philosopher Plato. The dialogue takes place between Socrates and Menexenus, a young Athenian man who is about to deliver a funeral oration in honor of the fallen soldiers of Athens. Socrates offers to help Menexenus prepare his speech, and the two engage in a discussion about the nature of rhetoric and the purpose of public speaking.Throughout the dialogue, Socrates challenges Menexenus to think deeply about the content and style of his speech, and to consider the ethical implications of using rhetoric to sway an audience. Socrates argues that true wisdom and virtue cannot be taught through rhetoric alone, but must be cultivated through a deeper understanding of philosophy and morality.The dialogue also includes a recitation of a fictional funeral oration by Aspasia, a prominent woman in Athenian society who was known for her eloquence and intelligence. This oration serves as a model for Menexenus as he prepares his own speech.Overall, Menexenus is a thought-provoking exploration of the role of rhetoric in public life, and a reflection on the values and ideals of ancient Athenian society.SOCRATES: O Menexenus! Death in battle is certainly in many respects a noble thing. The dead man gets a fine and costly funeral, although he may have been poor, and an elaborate speech is made over him by a wise man who has long ago prepared what he has to say, although he who is praised may not have been good for much. The speakers praise him for what he has done and for what he has not done.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.