In Our Time The Mytilenaean Debate
Jun 20, 2019
Angela Hobbs, a philosophy professor, Lisa Irene Hau, a classics lecturer, and Paul Cartledge, an expert in Greek culture, dive into the Mytilenaean Debate from 427 BC. They explore Athenian democracy's moral dilemmas as Athens reconsidered a brutal decision against Mytilene. The conversation includes Thucydides' insights on governance and power dynamics, and contrasting arguments of Cleon and Diodotus, highlighting the nuances of justice and self-interest in ancient political discourse. The fate of a second ship and its implications adds a gripping layer to this historical event.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Mytilenean Debate
- In 427 BC, Athenians voted to execute all Mytilenean men after a revolt.
- Second thoughts led to a debate about the decision's brutality and a race to stop the slaughter.
Peloponnesian War Context
- The Peloponnesian War was a conflict between the Athenian and Spartan alliances.
- Athens, with its naval power, and Sparta, with its land-based strength, clashed after a period of Cold War-like tension.
Athens-Mytilene Relationship
- Mytilene, a ship-contributing ally of Athens, had its own imperial ambitions within Lesbos.
- This created tension with Athens regarding Mytilene's role in the alliance.
