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12016-07-08T12:04:37-07:00A New leader: Brasidas18“Being asked what form of instruction was most in vogue in Sparta, he said, "Knowledge of how to rule and to be ruled." – Brasidas, apud Plutarchimage_header2016-09-25T19:30:06-07:00Map of Greece During The Peloponnesian War with Amphipolis
Readings Thucydides, Full text (optional reading if you have the time) of Brasidas' activities can be found in Book 4.66-5.13 (Link to Perseus Project)
If you do not have time to read all of Thucydides, check out Brasidas on Wikipedia and then, read his speeches below.
The first is to the Acanthians. The Acanthians were allies of Athens but Brasidas convinced them (by words and force) to switch sides to Sparta: read his speech here to the Acanthians).
The second speech is before the Battle of Amphipolis, a city that Brasidas besieged and captured in 424 BCE. Here is the Perseus Link (Book 5.6- 5.10. His speech begins in section 8 and ends on section 10].
Discussion Questions:
Who was Brasidas and what qualities as a leader does he exhibit?
What advice does he give the Acanthians and his troops?
Why do you think the Spartans follow him? Does it matter that he is not a king?
How does Brasidas compare to modern leaders in his political abilities to lead and convince others to follow?
