History of the Peloponnesian War · Character

Hermocrates

Syracuse's most persuasive citizen-general, who warns Sicily that Athenian help always arrives with a hidden invoice.

major

First appearance: book i

As a major figure in History of the Peloponnesian War, Hermocrates is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Delivers a speech at the Gela congress urging Sicilian unity against Athenian aggression, successfully brokering peace among the Sicilian cities.

In the storyXIIIOpen this moment free

At the congress in Gela, Hermocrates argues that Sicilian Greeks should settle their quarrels before Athens exploits them, and his speech is a masterclass in strategic foresight. He is a democrat by conviction in a city that will later turn on him, and his authority rests on persuasion rather than force. His resistance shapes Syracuse's decision to fight rather than submit, setting the stage for the city's improbable survival.

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5 connections

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Diverse Figures of the War
Protagonist
Spartan and Athenian Leaders
Spartan Admirals and Governors

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it captures the Athenians' fateful psychological peak of hubris…

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In the story

Hermocrates appears across 8 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

XIII
Delivers a speech at the Gela congress urging Sicilian unity against Athenian aggression, successfully brokering peace among the Sicilian cities.
Book VI
Syracusan leader who advocates for preparing defenses and seeking Spartan aid against the Athenian invasion.
XIX
Son of Hermon, he persuades the Syracusans of the reality of the Athenian expedition and advises preparations, including seeking alliances with Sicels, Italy, Carthage, and Sparta.
XX
Syracusan leader; Syracusan envoys are sent to Corinth and Lacedaemon to seek assistance.
Book VII
Syracusan leader who urged aggressive action against the Athenians and helped coordinate the defense.
Chapter XXI
Actively encourages the Syracusans to attack the Athenian navy, arguing that boldness will intimidate the enemy.
The Final Catastrophe
Hermocrates suspects the Athenian intention to retreat by land and warns the Syracusan authorities, urging them to block the roads and guard the passes to prevent the enemy's escape.
Nineteenth and twentieth years of the war — Revolt of Ionia — Intervention of Persia — The War in Ionia
Syracusan leader who urges the Sicilian allies to join the Peloponnesian fleet to finish off Athens.

Chapter companion notes

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See Hermocrates in book i

See Hermocrates in XIII