The Public Orations of Demosthenes, volume 1

"The Public Orations of Demosthenes, Volume 1" by Demosthenes is a compilation of political speeches designed for an audience of ancient Greeks, specifically those of Athens, and produced during the 4th century BC. The collection features orations by Demosthenes, an Athenian statesman and orator, that cover pressing political issues of the time, such as instances of war, strategic alliances between city states, threats to democracy, and external threats. The speeches also share Demosthenes's view of Athens' role among the Greek city-states. The introduction shares insight into Demosthenes's early life. It provides background into the complex political environment of Athens, and the challenges it faced including conflicts. The introduction describes Demosthenes's conflicts with his guardians, how he became a political voice, and his dedication to Athenian democracy. It also discusses the shifting allegiances and resistance towards Philip II of Macedon during the period. The introduction sets the stage for Demosthenes's speeches, which were created to encourage citizens to act against external threats and promote a shared sense of duty and pride and offers information on his dramatic rhetorical style.