Fellow Athenians, I come to you today not to discuss those matters you feel most urgent. I have been listening the past couple assemblies and something has come to my attention that is truly alarming. We Athenians are becoming divided; we are dividing at a time when we ought to stand strong to rebuild and reaffirm our Athenian values and grandeur. Yes, it is true that barely a majority are voting with each other, however is it not possible to propose resolutions and amendments that would give everyone a chance to receive what is most important? I say that this is not only a possibility, but also a feasible possibility.


In order to fully strengthen us as a glorious city-state, I feel that it is necessary to compromise on certain situations. One of these factions, if they were to go on without receiving anything through the assembly, would they not wish to revolt and attempt an overthrow of our current system of government? At this stage in our re-development, a revolt such as the aforementioned would be severely detrimental regardless of whether the revolt succeeds or not. I am by no means suggesting that I have formed such a dejected faction and that I plan to overthrow, but I see those who are disheartened by bickering and squabbling then decisions voted upon where they simply cannot win. I feel that having such strong opinions is a virtue; nevertheless such opinions can tear any unity we can muster apart.


Do not misunderstand, appeasing everyone is folly; heated passions being granted their wishes will only lead to a petty Athens. Still, I entreat you to do what is just and truly democratic: allow every voice to be heard while compromising when time comes to vote.


On this note, I would like to discuss the matter of education. I agree that our system of education has worked thus far and is tested by time. As Athena knows, I feel that my decisions regarding my sons' education is right. However, I am merely a man, thus fallible. If possible, I would divide my land among my four sons so that each could follow in my footsteps. Yet this is not possible. None of my sons could produce even half of what my lands currently produce. Each would fall into poverty regardless of how much favor Athena may give. On the other hand, if I were to institute one of my sons into an apprenticeship he could not master, I would be to blame. To remedy such a situation, I do feel that some form of general education could be beneficial to me and my sons' futures. They could find that one skill I would never have been able to teach them and expound upon it. Therefore, I propose a Bazaar of Education where for one week each year, masters pass the currently being rebuilt long walls and educate the young that can attend. Each master would educate out of pride, and would do so without monetary compensation. Considering any child attending could have an aptitude for the subject, the master would have the opportunity to find the best apprentice, or apprentices, available. Thus, all parties would win.

Your Middling Farmer