Aeschylus, the Greek playwright, was the first European dramatist whose works were preserved. He was also the first of the great Greek tragedians (writers of serious drama involving tragic events), and he was more concerned than any other tragedian with the common connection between man and the gods.
Aeschylus was born in the Greek town of Eleusis to a noble and wealthy Athenian family. Euphorion, his father, was a wealthy upper-classman. Homer’s writings were part of Aeschylus’ education (Greek poet who lived during the 800s B.C.E. and wrote the Iliad and the Odyssey ). In fact, when Aeschylus began writing as a teen, it was Homer who inspired him the most. He entered his tragedies in the annual Athens competition as a young adult and won his first award in 484 B.C.E. The writings of Aeschylus were strongly Athenian and full of moral authority. He won first place in the Athens competition thirteen times!
As a young man, Aeschylus witnessed many exciting events in Athens’ history. Many constitutional reforms were implemented in the city, resulting in democracy. Aeschylus became a soldier and helped to repel a Persian invasion at the Battle of Marathon (490 B.C.E. ). Nonetheless, Aeschylus’ plays left a greater imprint on Greek history than any of his military achievements.
“It is in the character of very few men to honor without envy a friend who has prospered.”- Aeschylus
“There is no pain so great as the memory of joy in present grief. Aeschylus Happiness is a choice that requires effort at times. “- Aeschylus
” Time brings all things to pass. Aeschylus It is best for the wise man not to seem wise. “- Aeschylus
” It is not the oath that makes us believe the man, but the man the oath. Aeschylus I know how men in exile feed on dreams. “- Aeschylus
” Of all the gods only death does not desire gifts. Aeschylus It is always in season for old men to learn. Aeschylus God loves to help him who strives to help himself. “- Aeschylus
” To be free from evil thoughts is God’s best gift. Aeschylus Words are the physicians of a mind diseased. “- Aeschylus
” It is easy when we are in prosperity to give advice to the afflicted. “- Aeschylus
” Too few rejoice at a friend’s good fortune. Aeschylus Be bold and boast, just like the cock beside the hen. “- Aeschylus
” When a match has equal partners then I fear not. Aeschylus By Time and Age full many things are taught. “- Aeschylus
” His resolve is not to seem the bravest, but to be. Aeschylus He who goes unenvied shall not be admired. “- Aeschylus
