Demosthenes
Demosthenes
Demostheneswas a Greek statesman and orator of ancient Athens. His orations constitute a significant expression of contemporary Athenian intellectual prowess and provide an insight into the politics and culture of ancient Greece during the 4th century BC. Demosthenes learned rhetoric by studying the speeches of previous great orators. He delivered his first judicial speeches at the age of 20, in which he argued effectively to gain from his guardians what was left of his inheritance. For a time, Demosthenes made his...
men benefits facts
The man who has received a benefit ought always to remember it, but he who has granted it ought to forget the fact at once.
kindness men favors
He who confers a favor should at once forget it, if he is not to show a sordid ungenerous spirit. To remind a man of a kindness conferred and to talk of it, is little different from reproach.
wise stupid men
As a vessel is known by the sound, whether it be cracked or not; so men are proved, by their speeches, whether they be wise or foolish.
self deceit affection
Nothing is more easy than to deceive one's self, as our affections are subtle persuaders.
men evil deeds
Success has a great tendency to conceal and throw a veil over the evil deeds of men.
cost repentance decline
I decline to buy repentance at the cost often thousand drachmas.
clouds secret-places secret
Clouds cannot cover secret places, nor denials conceal truth.
men helping willing
No man who is not willing to help himself has any right to apply to his friends, or to the gods.