Kitap 1
9.30
We ought also to consider in whose presence we praise, for, as Socrates said, it is not difficult to praise Athenians among Athenians.Plat. Menex. 235d. We ought also to speak of what is esteemed among the particular audience, Scythians, Lacedaemonians, or philosophers,Thus, the Scythians may be assumed to be brave and great hunters; the Spartans hardy, courageous, and brief in speech; the Athenians fond of literature—and they should be praised accordingly. as actually existing there. And, generally speaking, that which is esteemed should be classed as noble, since there seems to be a close resemblance between the two.That is, τὸ τίμιον looks as if it were really καλόν, and should be spoken as if it were so.
9.31
Again, all such actions as are in accord with what is fitting are noble; if, for instance, they are worthy of a man's ancestors or of his own previous achievements; for to obtain additional honor is noble and conduces to happiness. Also, if the tendency of what is done is better and nobler, and goes beyond what is to be expected; for instance, if a man is moderate in good fortune and stout-hearted in adversity, or if, when he becomes greater, he is better and more forgiving. Such was the phrase of Iphicrates, Look what I started from !Cp. 7.32 above. and of the Olympian victor: Formerly, with a rough basket on my shoulders, I used to carry fish from Argos to Tegea.Frag. 111 (P.L.G. 3.). and of Simonides: Daughter, wife, and sister of tyrants.Archedice, daughter of Hippias, tyrant of Athens, and wife of Aeantides, son of Hippocles, tyrant of Lampsacus.
