Demetrius and the Athenians

Demetrius entered Athens with a stern face. Citizens trembled as soldiers surrounded them with swords. He reproved them for their ingratitude and desertion, saying they deserved death—but he preferred to show power through forgiveness. He had sent grain to every house so their families would not starve. The Athenians were overwhelmed with joy. Though generous and brave, Demetrius ended sadly: after losing and regaining Macedon, he was captured by his rival Seleucus and died in prison. Meanwhile, Gauls invaded Greece to rob Delphi. A thunderstorm frightened them; in the darkness they attacked each other. The Greeks defeated them; their leader Brennus killed himself; the survivors withdrew to Galatia in Asia Minor.