Debate reflections

I think that over all we did a fairly good job. Every one was a bit nervous. Which caused some if us to forget information, but then we let loose at the free for all and lost some of the formality required. In general I think that we need to keep our personal opinions out of the debate. The strategy of using one's personal view was used several times in an attempt to confuse the opposing team. I also think that if everyone was equally cooperative some would have felt more prepared. Over all it was a good-ish experience, but it will improve with time and practice.

Solon, Themistocles, and Pericles

In my opinion, Plutarch favors Solon and Pericles above Themistocles, he still shows respect for all men, just more respect for Solon and Pericles. Plutarch, when speaking about Solon and Pericles is constantly showering praises on them. Plutarch is constantly praising Solon's great wisdom, and knowledge, and Pericles' great leadership. Themistocles, he does praise, but he focuses a lot on his bad behavior and manners as a boy, and on his betrayal as an adult. Plurtar in my opinion faors Solon and Periles.

Lycurgus

I think that Plutarch wrote this "biography" of Lycurgus because he truly respected his wisdom, and justice, and want for equality. When Plutarch speaks of Lycurgus, it is never anything negative, only how good, and just he is. One of the stories that Plutarch tells of Lycurgus is when he inherits the throne after his brother's death. He reigns for a while until it is discovered that his late brother's wife is pregnant. Lycurgus' brother's wife offers to kill her child as long as she can become queen. Lycurgus is disgusted by her offer, but seems to accept until the child is born, Lycurgus then gives the throne over to his nephew, and leaves to avoid suspicion due to rumors being spread about him. As Lycurgus traveled he picked up ideas from his travels and implemented them in Spartan society in order to better it. I believe that Plutarch agreed with Lycurgus' changes to  the Spartan Constitution, because he refers to the luxuries they had before Lycurgus' changes as though they were silly, he does refer to them as "useless" and never once has something to say against Lycurgus, or his ideas.

The Iliad book 9: Achilles

I think that Achilles should have returned to the fight after the Embassy to Achilles. Achilles wanted the Acheans to come and beg for his help, to realize how much he was needed. And they did, they begged and offered him much great wealth. And by not returning he showed immense hubris, and he used the gods for his own personal gain, and then refused the help they gave him.