Product Description

Speakers address audiences in the earliest Greek literature, but oratory became a distinct genre in the late fifth century and reached its maturity in the fourth. This book traces the development of its techniques by examining the contribution made by each orator. Dr Usher makes the speeches come alive for the reader through an in-depth analysis of the problems of composition and the likely responses of contemporary audiences. His study differs from previous books in its recognition of the richness of the early tradition which made innovation difficult, however, the orators are revealed as men of remarkable talent, versatility, and resource. Antiphon's pioneering role, Lysias' achievement of balance between the parts of the speech, the establishment of oratory as a medium of political thought by Demosthenes and Isocrates, and the individual characteristics of other orators - Andocides, Isaeus, Lycurgus, Hyperides, Dinarchus and Apollodorus - together make a fascinating study in evolution; while the illustrative texts of the orators (which are translated into English) include some of the liveliest and most moving passages in Greek literature.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #3598187 in Books
• Published on: 1999-07-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 400 pages

Brian Vickers, TLS
"This is a lucid, balanced study, exceptionaly well-informed, drawing on and extending a wide range of scholarship in many languages."

Review
Full of brilliant observations ... enormous wealth of fascinating interpretations ... thought-provoking and worthwhile ... It will be a boon to everyone studying a specific speech, and it will often be consulted by both students and scholars. (Gnomon )

This is a lucid, balanced study, exceptionaly well-informed, drawing on and extending a wide range of scholarship in many languages. (Brian Vickers, Times Literary Supplement )

He helpfully analyses the structure of every speech in terms of the traditional division into preface, narrative, proof and epilogue. (Brian Vickers, Times Literary Supplement )

Usher deploys a wide knowledge of Athenian law and politics, his chronological approach bringing out well the setbacks to Athenian imperialism and the disillusioned mood of the 350s. (Brian Vickers, Times Literary Supplement )

Brian Vickers, TLS
"Usher deploys a wide knowledge of Athenian law and politics, his chronological approach bringing out well the setbacks to Athenian imperialism and the disillusioned mood of the 350s."