Arguments for "Fools":
* Realpolitik: From a purely pragmatic standpoint, the Melians were hopelessly outmatched by the Athenian Empire. They had no hope of winning a war against them. Refusing the Athenian offer meant certain destruction, which ultimately came to pass.
* Naive Idealism: The Melians clung to ideals of justice and independence, refusing to acknowledge the realities of power politics. Their faith in neutrality and divine intervention was ultimately misplaced.
* Lack of Prudence: They failed to consider the long-term consequences of their defiance. Their city was destroyed, their men killed, and their women and children enslaved.
Arguments for "Heroes":
* Moral Courage: The Melians stood firm against Athenian aggression, refusing to submit to an unjust demand. They prioritized their principles over self-preservation.
* Resistance to Tyranny: The Athenians were imposing their will on the Melians, denying them the right to self-determination. The Melians' defiance was a stand against imperial domination.
* Inspiration: Even though they failed, the Melians' courage and refusal to yield became an enduring symbol of resistance against powerful oppressors. Their story continues to resonate with those fighting for freedom and justice.
It's Important to Note:
* Thucydides' Perspective: The historian Thucydides, who documented the Melian Dialogue, presents a more nuanced view. He acknowledges the Athenian brutality, yet also highlights the Melians' naivety and unrealistic expectations. He seems to suggest that while their principles were admirable, their actions were ultimately unwise.
* The Importance of Context: The Melian Dialogue occurred within a specific historical context, where the Athenian Empire was expanding its power ruthlessly. Judging the Melians solely by modern moral standards would be anachronistic.
Conclusion:
The Melians were neither fools nor heroes in a simplistic sense. They were a people caught in a complex situation, faced with difficult choices. Their story serves as a reminder of the power of both idealism and pragmatism in the face of overwhelming odds. It prompts us to consider the interplay between morality, power, and the consequences of our actions.