As discussed previously, Plutarch’s Parallel Lives is an important work not only because of the insights provided with respect to subject of the various persons who are discussed in the biographies but also due to the information provided about the times in which they live.  It is an interesting thought that during the time of Pericles there was grumbling against taxation much as it is today.  The primary consideration of Plutarch was to present a study of ethics.   Perhaps it might be said there are lessons to be drawn from this as well?

Pericles was an influential Greek statesman, orator and general during the Golden Age of Athens.  He was a descendant of the historically powerful Alcmaeonid family. Thucydides described Pericles as “the first citizen of Athens”.  During his time, Pericles promoted the arts and literature and helped Athens obtain its reputation as the educational and cultural center of Ancient Greece.  He is also said to have helped foster democracy in its governance of Athenian society.

That portion of Plutarch’s Parallel Lives that pertains to Pericles can be found here:

http://www.bartleby.com/12/2.html#27

Alternatively, Volume 1 of this work may be listened to as an audiobook here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fI9i5JQ0IYI