Abstract

Our modern affection for ancient Athenian democracy turns out to have very shallow roots. This paper attempts to show just how critical most European writers were of Athenian democracy— and even of Periclean expenditures on art!—long into the nineteenth century. Even in the era of the Enlightenment, only a few Dutch and then English writers championed the greatness of Athens; most other writers continued to be fans of Sparta, whose stability, abstemiousness, and military valor were prized. Of course, early modern writers criticized other aspects of Athens than those we might choose today; their critiques rested on the evils of demagoguery, vote buying, ingratitude towards dedicated and talented leaders, and the imperious treatment of their allies. Were they wholly wrong about ancient democracy—or many of its modern versions? Perhaps this sort of clarity will help us make reforms before it is too late.