PLUTARCH, RISE & FALL, PT. 2
STUDY QUESTIONS
Aristides, Cimon, Pericles
There are many references in these readings to
various battles in the Persian Wars. For help in understanding these battles see p.133 in
"Atlas of the Greek World" from Facts On File. (ISBN 0-87196-448-1)
ARISTIDES (omit this section if completed in Pt. 1)
1. Compare the characters of Aristides and Themistocles.
2. What arguments does Plutarch give for why rulers ought to pursue virtue rather than
mere power?
3. What becomes manifest in Aristides’ character in the event with the ostrakon?
4. Why did Aristides think that the boat bridge across the Hellespont should not be
destroyed?
5. What was Aristides motivation for moving Athens in a democratic direction?
6. What weaknesses plagued the union of Greek cities under Aristides?
The
purpose and principle of ostracism.
The
ostracism of Aristides.
CIMON
7. Why was Cimon thought more Spartan (Peloponesian) than Athenian?
8. How did Cimon win the allegiance of the Greek armies?
9. Did Cimon’s generosity show him to be virtuous or simply a panderer?
10. How did Cimon weaken the military resolve of the other cities?
11. How were Pericles’ actions instrumental in the downfall of Cimon?
PERICLES
12. Why ought we to study the lives of famous men?
13. Why was Philip of Macedon ashamed of his son being able to play the harp so well?
14. Why does virtue have the ability to draw us to imitation while talents do not?
15. Why was Pericles especially concerned that the people would not suspect him of having
tyrannical ambitions?
16. How did Pericles compete with the personal largesse of Cimon?
17. What was Pericles most enduring contribution to Athens?
18. How did Pericles excuse his usage of the monies collected for the war against the
Persians?
19. How does Plutarch describe the contrast between the Philosopher and the Statesman?
20. What did Pericles mean by saying, "no Athenian ever put on mourning because of
me."?
21. How does Plutarch’s view of the gods differ from that of the Poets?