Demosthenes is still quoted in speeches by modern politicians, and is often viewed as the supreme example of the patriot. This book examines why his speeches came to be regarded so highly and asks whether his reputation is justified.

Demosthenes is often adjudged the statesman par excellence, and his oratory as some of the finest to survive from classical times. Contemporary politicians still quote him in their speeches and for some he is the supreme example of a patriot. This landmark study of this remarkable man and his long career, the first to focus on him for more than 80 years, looks at the background behind this reputation and asks whether it is truly deserved.