Probing Elitism

The video explores the role of elites in ancient Athens, focusing on the contradictions in oratory and the surprising stability of Athenian democracy. The speaker discusses their research on Athenian orators and sea power, highlighting the vibrant recovery of Athens post-Peloponnesian War. The video challenges the notion of Athenian democracy as a failure, instead emphasizing its success and the coexistence of elites and masses despite economic and educational inequalities.

What contradiction did the orator Democides present in his speech?

• He claimed to be both elite and ordinary.

• He supported both Athens and Sparta.

• He praised both democracy and monarchy.

• He criticized both war and peace.

What was the author's first published article about?

• The economic systems of Sparta

• The architecture of ancient Greece

• Views of sea power in 4th century BC

• The role of women in Athens

How did the author's generation of Greek historians view the period after the Peloponnesian War?

• As a time of decline and failure

• As a time of peace and prosperity

• As a period of remarkable vibrancy

• As an era of complete chaos

What was the author's main question about Athenian democracy?

• Why did it last as long as it did?

• Why was it only for the elite?

• Why did it fail so quickly?

• Why was it never challenged?

What challenge did Athenian democracy face according to the author?

• Eliminating economic inequality

• Maintaining a strong military

• Balancing elite and mass interests

• Expanding its territory