1. Journal of Ancient History 4 (287)
  2. The Euthynai Trials in Athens in the 5th Century BC and «The Case of Paches»

The Euthynai Trials in Athens in the 5th Century BC and «The Case of Paches»

Kudryavtseva Tatiana V.

The article explores the euthynai, scrutiny trials in Athens (prosecution of an official as a result of the review of his conduct after laying down his office) in the 5th century BC. A detailed survey of the «case of Paches» (427 BC) is presented. Paches’ principal actions during his command are considered; various grounds for complaints against the Athenian general and possible accusations against him are discussed; the explanation for the tragic outcome of his trial (the defendant’s suicide in court) is suggested. The author supposes that the theatre, Sophocles’ tragedy in particular, might have influenced the way Paches committed suicide and the choice of weapon used for it.

Keywords: Athens, scrutiny of the officials, euthynai, trials, Peloponnesian War, strategos, Paches, suicide, Alcidas, Thucydides, theatre, Ajax.
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