Poems List

It is impossible for men engaged in low and groveling pursuits to have noble and generous sentiments. A man’s thought must always follow his employment.
3
The easiest thing of all is to deceive one's self for what a man wishes he generally believes to be true.
3

There is a great deal of wishful thinking in such cases; it is the easiest thing of all to deceive one’s self.

Olynthiac

3
The man who has received a benefit ought always to remember it, but he who has granted it ought to forget the fact at once.
3
The fact speaks for themselves.
2
He who confers a favor should at once forget it, if he is not to show a sordid ungenerous spirit. To remind a man of a kindness conferred and to talk of it, is little different from reproach.
3

Nothing is easier than self-deceit. For what each man wishes, that he also believes to be true.

Third Olynthiac

3

Every advantage in the past is judged in the light of the final issue.

First Olynthiac

3

When asked what was first in oratory, [he] replied to his questioner, ‘action,’ what second, ‘action,’ and again third, ‘action’.

Cicero Brutus ch. 37, sect. 142

4
You cannot have a proud and chivalrous spirit if your conduct is mean and paltry; for whatever a man's actions are, such must be his spirit.
3

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Born in 384 BC, Demosthenes overcame early personal challenges, including the early loss of his father and the mismanagement of his inheritance, to become one of Athens' most influential lawyers and politicians. He distinguished himself through his powerful and persuasive speeches, known as 'Philippics,' in which he warned the Athenians about the Macedonian threat and urged them to resist. Despite his efforts, Athens eventually fell under Macedonian influence. Demosthenes is remembered for his integrity, patriotism, and unparalleled eloquence, serving as a symbol of the struggle for democratic freedom.