It is well worth watching a debate and seeing with what skill and eloquence Athenian orators are able to sway the masses. As they tuck into the bread and wine they have brought for sustenance, farmers and city-dwellers, rich and poor, and cobblers and generals alike all hold forth on current affairs while trading witty remarks and insults.Īll citizens are allowed to speak and vote, though it is often skilled orators backed by family fortunes who achieve the greatest prominence. Don't imagine these to be sombre and dignified gatherings, though. Every ten days or so Athenian citizens (that is, men from Athenian families – women, resident foreigners or slaves are excluded) assemble here to debate and decide on the fortunes of their city. The hill Athenians call the Pnyx offers good views over the city, but its main attraction is that it is the place to watch Athenian democracy at work. Replica of the Athena Parthenon statue in Nashville by Alan Le Quire.
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