Pericles Quotes

A collection of quotes by Pericles.

Pericles (495-429 BC) was an influential statesman, orator, and general in ancient Athens, Greece. He was born into a prominent aristocratic family and received a good education, studying under the renowned philosopher Anaxagoras. Pericles played a crucial role in shaping Athens' political and cultural landscape during the Golden Age of Athens.

Rising to power in the mid-5th century BC, Pericles was elected as one of the ten Athenian generals. He soon became the dominant political leader and held the position of strategos for several consecutive years. Pericles implemented a series of reforms to strengthen Athenian democracy, including paying jurors and providing public officials' salaries, enabling citizens from all social classes to participate in government affairs.

Pericles is best known for his leadership during the Peloponnesian War, a conflict between Athens and Sparta. Despite initially avoiding direct confrontation, he later shifted to a more aggressive approach, using Athens' naval power to launch military campaigns against their enemies. However, his strategic decisions led to the devastating plague outbreak in Athens, which claimed his own life in 429 BC.

Beyond his military and political achievements, Pericles was a patron of the arts and under his guidance, Athens experienced a remarkable cultural flourishing. He supported great playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides and commissioned the construction of iconic architectural masterpieces, such as the Parthenon on the Acropolis.

Pericles' legacy endures as an embodiment of Athenian democracy and the pinnacle of classical Greek civilization. His influence on politics and culture during his time has left an indelible mark on history.