In today's politics, demagoguery is ubiquitous. But let us remember the father of soapbox oration, Hyperbolus (circa 400 B.C.). Born into a common family, Hyperbolus rose to political prominence in ancient Athens through his powerful oratory skills. Eventually he was ostracized from Athenian politics for conspiring against two political enemies (these fellows ended up conspiring together to ostracize him).His ultimate legacy? Universal scorn. Furthermore, he is the root of the word "hyperbole," which are exaggerated claims or statements not meant to be taken literally.
I close with some lines from Plato Comicus' poem, Hyperbolus.
The man deserved the fate; deny't who can?
Yes, but the fate did not deserve the man;
Not for the like of him and his slave-brands
Did Athens put the sherd into our hands.
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