Pericles as a Tyrant - Essay Example

One of the characteristics that prove that Pericles was not a tyrant is his approach to doing things. For instance, he was able to use the majority of the people in the assembly to pass resolutions that restricted Areopagus when his main political challenger was away in Sparta. The resolutions were not meant to benefit him but were for the good of the citizens. He managed to pass legislation that gave people powers and created institutions where citizens would have the right of voting and contest for political positions (History World, 12). Therefore, he managed to overcome the tyrant’s characteristics by widening the democratic space for citizens.

Secondly, Pericles was a changed leader once he took over leadership. He was willing to give back to the people hence attracting more citizens who came to his support. This is also evidenced when the King of Sparta, Archidamus, asked Thucydides whether he was a better fighter than Pericles. He answered that Pericles was better because he can convince the audience that he has won in cases where he is defeated. He was also above reproach by citizens since he was clean of corruption (History World, 15). The character he displays does not portray one who is a tyrant, but an individual who consults with others in doing things.

In other instances, Thucydides admired the leadership style of Pericles where he acknowledges that Athen was in the name of democracy with first citizens governing it. Through this comment, he acknowledges the charismatic leadership style which Pericles showed where he was able to convince and manipulate. Similarly, there is no accusation labeled against Pericles, but instead, his opponent focuses on his integrity (History World, 16).

Lastly, Pericles was not carried away by people; instead, he guided the people. He acted as a public charismatic figure and as an advocate for the advisor's proposals. He also acted on the proposals of the people themselves in the ruling. He increased the power of the people and they were left with non-authoritative leadership.  Additionally, he depended on popular support to govern during the Peloponnesian war (History World, 18). Therefore, Pericles' inclusion leadership style does not portray authoritarian or tyrannical leadership. He was working in hand with the people through consultation and seeking support. He was duly elected when he took over the office until his death. Therefore, I conclude that Pericles was not a tyrant but was led by a populist. Read More