Aristophanes and Pericles
Answer one of the following two prompts in a two-page essay

Aristophanes was one of the earliest writers of satire.   Satire, of course, can be an effective tool to critique the failings of society.  Athens, which saw itself as the center of the civilized world, certainly needed to be taken down a notch or two in Aristophanes’ estimation.  Pick one scene from Lysistrata where you think he is most effective highlighting the shortcomings of his society.  Read these lines closely as you analyze this scene in a two-page paper.  What is the general message Aristophanes is trying to communicate, and what relevance does it have for Athenian society?   Finally, what if any relevance does Aristophanes have for our society today?  Explain.

Or

Pericles’ Funeral Oration is a piece of rhetoric.  First, highlight Pericles’ main point or argument.  Second, tell us how he does it.  How does he persuade his audience?  How does he sway us?  What rhetorical techniques does he use to persuade?  Highlight at least two passages from the Oration where you think Pericles is at his most effective.