Why was the Peloponnesian War fought? What was its long-term significance? and What points is Pericles trying to make about Athens in his Funeral Oration?
The Peloponnesian War was fought because, after the Persian Wars, Athens became powerful, using its navy to dominate its allies and build an empire. Sparta, fearing Athens’ growing influence, eventually decided to go to war.
The war ended with Sparta’s victory, but all of Greece was left weakened. It destroyed Athenian naval dominance, drained resources, and shattered unity among the Greek city-states.
In Pericles’ Funeral Oration, he praises Athens and its citizens. His speech serves as both a eulogy for the fallen and a celebration of Athenian democracy.
Some key points Pericles makes include:
- Athens is a model city, admired by others.
- Athens is a democracy, giving power to the people.
- Athenians advance based on ability and merit, not birth or social rank.
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