“Our constitution does not copy the laws of neighboring stat…
“Our constitution does not copy the laws of neighboring states; we are rather a pattern to others. Its administration favors the many instead of the few; this is why it is called a democracy. If we look to the laws, they afford equal justice to all…class considerations not being allowed to interfere with merit; nor again does poverty bar the way. The freedom which we enjoy in our government extends also to our ordinary life. We do not feel called upon to be angry with our neighbor for doing what he likes… But all this ease in our private relations does not make us lawless as citizens. Against this fear is our chief safeguard, teaching us to obey the magistrates and the laws, particularly such as regard the protection of the injured, cannot be broken without acknowledged disgrace…Source: Pericles, “The Funeral Oration,” 432 BCE Questions: 1. Who was Pericles? 2. According to Pericles, what were the characteristics of Athenian democracy? Your answer must be in full sentences and contain supporting evidence from the reading.