Page:Thucydides, translated into English Vol 1.djvu/242

126 FUNERAL SPEECH OF PERICLES [ll the ceremony was repeated from time to time throughout the war. Over those who were the first buried Pericles was chosen to speak. At the fitting moment he advanced from the sepulchre to a lofty stage, which had been erected in order that he might be heard as far as possible by the multitude, and spoke as follows : — (funeral speech.) 35 ' Most of those who have spoken here before me Thelaivwhichmjoms ^^^'^ Commended the lawgiver who this oration has been added this oration to our other funeral often praised. But I customs ; it Seemed to them a worthy should prefer to praise , . , , , the brave by deeds only, thing that such an honour should be not to imperil their repu- given at their burial to the dead who tation on the skill of h^ye fallen on the field of battle. But an orator. Still, our t i i i i r 11 1 . aneestors approved the ^ should have preferred that, when men s fractice, and I must deeds have been brave, they should ^*^-^- be honoured in deed only, and with such an honour as this public funeral, which 3'ou are now witnessing. Then the reputation of many would not have been imperilled on the eloquence or want of eloquence of one, and their virtues believed or not as he spoke well or ill. For it is difficult to say neither too little nor too much ; and even moderation is apt not to give the impression of truthfulness. The friend of the dead who knows the facts is likely to think that the words of the speaker fall short of his knowledge and of his wishes ; another who is not so well informed, when he hears of anything which surpasses his own powers, will be envious and will suspect exaggera- tion. Mankind are tolerant of the praises of others so long as each hearer thinks that he can do as well or nearly as well himself, but, when the speaker rises above him, jealousy is aroused and he begins to be incredulous. However, since our ancestors have set the seal of their approval upon the practice, I must obe}', and to the utmost of my power shall endeavour to satisfy the wishes and beliefs of all who hear me.