Mon Sep 25

 

Write a paper on either of the following topics:

 

Thucydides, The Revolt of Mitylene

• What punishment does Cleon demand for the Mitylinians, and what rationale does he give?  Evaluate his position from a pragmatic and an ethical standpoint.

 

Thucydides, The Melian Dialogues

• What is the underlying belief system of the Athenian negotiators in all of their arguments with the Melians?  What efforts do the Melians make to counter those arguments, and how do the Athenians respond? (pick one or two).  Finally, evaluate the Athenians position from a pragmatic and an ethical standpoint.