Demosthenes biography

Demosthenes (384–322 BC, Greek: Δημοσθένης, Dēmosthénēs) was a Greekstatesman and orator from ancient Athens. His speeches show the height of classical Athenian skill at speaking.

They also show us lots about 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 law court speeches when he was twenty.

He argued effectively to gain from his guardians what was left of his inheritance. For a time, Demosthenes made his living as a professional speech-writer and a lawyer, writing speeches for use in private legal suits.

At the age of 21, Demosthenes took the job of the commander of warships in Athens.

Demosthenes grew interested in politics during the time he wrote speeches for others.

Demosthenes biography for kids

In 354 BC he gave his first public political speeches. He went on to devote his most productive years to opposing Macedon's expansion. He idealized his city and tried