Write about the following prompt:
This should be majority of the essay.
Thucydides’ work is, among other things, an examination of a number of great—and many not so great—statesmen. Who is the best statesman in the book? You should compare this statesman, in his virtues, wisdom, and accomplishments, with at least two others. Possibilities include, but are not limited to, Themistocles, Pericles, Cleon, Diodotus, Brasidas, Nicias, Alcibiades, Demosthenes, and Hermocrates.
Then write about the differences between the two books
Following this prompt:
It is common to regard Plato as the father of “idealism” and Thucydides as the father of “realism.” On the basis of our readings this semester, how adequate do you think this way of conceiving of the difference is? From which of the two authors can one learn more about the question of justice and the nature of politics? In your explanation of your answers, you should include both a consideration of key passages from each author and a reflection on the key differences of approach between the two authors.
Books
Plato, Republic, translated by Bloom (Basic Books)Thucydides, The Landmark Thucydides, edited by Strassler (The Free Press)
