Prose Set Text Group 2 (2023–24): Thucydides, Histories Book 6.47–6.50.1 & 6.53–6.61

Thucydides' *Histories* Book 6 covers the Athenian expedition to Sicily (415–413 BCE), a pivotal event in the Peloponnesian War. The prescribed sections (6.47–50.1 and 6.53–61) focus on the debate in Athens after the mutilation of the Herms and the profanation of the Mysteries, and the subsequent recall of Alcibiades. These passages are crucial for understanding Athenian politics, the role of religion in decision-making, and the leadership of figures like Alcibiades, Nicias, and Hermocrates. The text also explores themes of fear, suspicion, and the fragility of democracy under stress.

For OCR A-Level Greek, students must analyse Thucydides' language, style, and historiographical methods. The prescribed sections are rich in rhetorical speeches (e.g., Alcibiades' defence, Nicias' caution) and narrative techniques (e.g., vivid description of the panic in Athens). Understanding the historical context—the Sicilian Expedition's origins, the oligarchic plot, and the impact of the Herms scandal—is essential. These passages also illustrate Thucydides' interest in human nature and the causes of political failure.

This topic fits into the wider A-Level syllabus by demonstrating how Thucydides uses speeches to explore character and motivation, and how he structures his narrative to highlight turning points. Students should connect these sections to later events in Book 7 (the Sicilian disaster) and to themes like Athenian imperialism, the role of the demos, and the consequences of internal strife. Mastery of this material will enable students to write sophisticated essays on Thucydides' historical method and his views on democracy and leadership.