Plutarch’s Lives has been previously discussed. The past posts should be reviewed for some background information about this set of biographies. With the respect to Demosthenes, the following may be said.
Demosthenes was a Greek statesman and orator of ancient Athens. He became so by studying the speeches of past orators. His orations provide insight into the politics and culture of early Greece. By the age of 20, he was already delivering his first judicial speeches in his own interest. He then went on to become a professional speechwriter and an attorney.
He opposed the expansion of Philip II of Macedon over the southern Greek states to no avail. After Philip’s death, Demosthenes helped lead Athens’ rebellion against Alexander the Great. After this rebellion failed, Antipater sent his men to track Demosthenes down. After the rebellion, Demosthenes took his own life rather than be arrested.
Plutarch’s Lives on Demosthenes may be read here:
http://www.bartleby.com/12/7.html#9
Alternatively, Plutarch’s Lives may be listened to in its audiobook format here:
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