ABSTRACT
The introduction to the Third Philippic (§§1-5) dwells on the customary theme of Athenian idleness and Macedonian opportunism. The narrative (§§6-46) begins with the assertion that Philip is at war with Athens, contrary to the arguments of the Athenian peace party (§§6-8). Philip will never declare war, but his actions violate the Peace of Philocrates and pose a threat to the security of Greece (§§9-20). Philip’s crimes are greater than those committed by Athens, Sparta, or Thebes during their successive hegemonies (§§21-35); the Greeks are deterred from resisting Philip by mutual mistrust and a tendency toward corruption (§§36-46).
