Plutarch on the liberation of Athens
Few generals have received the honors that Demetrius I Poliorcetes, son of Antigonus Monophthalmus, received in 307 when he liberated Athens. It was an important event in the Fourth War of the Diadochi (the successors of Alexander the Great), because Demetrius and his father were called kings. A year later, they themselves assumed the title.
The story is told by Plutarch of Chaeronea in his Life of Demetrius (8-10). The translation was made by M.M. Austin.
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[9.1] On hearing this proclamation, the majority at once cast down their shields at their feet and applauded, and shouted to Demetrius to disembark, calling him their benefactor and savior. Demetrius of Phalerum and his followers thought they had in any case to welcome the man who had force on his side, even if there was no certainty that he would keep his promises, but nonetheless they sent off a deputation to convey their requests. Demetrius met them graciously and sent them back with Aristodemus of Miletus, one of his father's friends. |
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[9.2] Because of the change of government, Demetrius of Phalerum was more frightened of his fellow-citizens than of the enemy. Demetrius did not ignore him, but out of regard for the man's reputation and merits, he had him and his friends escorted safely to Thebes as requested. He himself declared he would not cast a glance at the city, despite his wish to do so, before he had freed it entirely and rid it of its garrison. He threw a palisade and ditch around Munychia, and sailed off against Megara, which was garrisoned by Cassander. [...] |