The Melian Dialogue
In 416 BC, Athens sent an expedition to the neutral island of Melos and demanded surrender. The Melians asked to negotiate. What follows is a dialogue - not speeches, but back-and-forth debate. The Athenians are shockingly direct: "right, as the world goes, is only in question between equals in power, while the strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must." The Melians appeal to justice, to the gods, to the hope that Sparta will help them. The Athenians dismiss each argument. The Melians refuse to surrender. Athens besieges the island, and when it falls, kills all the men and enslaves the women and children.
The Text
What You'll Learn
Comprehension
Explains the situation: Athens demands surrender of neutral Melos, Melians try to negotiate
Cause & Consequence
Explains Athens's reasoning: neutrality looks like weakness, empire requires fear
Meaning
Takes a position on whether Athens was wrong, or just honest about how power works
Evidence
Cites a specific exchange or phrase from the dialogue
Defense
Maintains or thoughtfully revises their position under challenge
How It Works
Your AI tutor will guide you through this text using the Socratic method. Instead of giving you answers, it asks questions that help you discover the meaning for yourself.
- 1.Read the text carefully
- 2.Answer the tutor's questions in your own words
- 3.Progress through each stage as you demonstrate understanding
Free to try. No credit card required.