THE CANONOF THE ATTIC ORATORS IN MILOŠ N. ĐURIĆ’S HISTORY OF THE ANCIENT GREEK LITERATURE – THE EXAMPLE OF AESCHINES

Abstract

In this paper, we devoted special attention to the chapter of Đurić’s History of Ancient Greek Literature that deals with oratory, with a particular focus on Đurić’s critical analysis and interpretation of Aeschines’ rhetorical and political engagement. In doing so, we also briefly presented some of our own observations regarding Đurić’s understanding of the essence and significance of oratory—not only within the context of the ancient world, but also in its influence on the modern age. Researching this issue inevitably implies different readings of the rhetorical text — philological as well as ethical — which is precisely the case in Đurić’s aforementioned work. Therefore, the aim of Đurić’s interpretation was not only to provide a brief overview of the rhetorical engagement of Attic rhetors, but also to place their activity in a broader social and political context, enabling a better understanding of their actions and influence, as well as the ethical and psychological elements present in their speeches.