Is Clouds By Aristophanes The Corrupt Nature Of...

Satirical literature is often referred to as comical composure that critiques the recklessness of man. As such, a vivid satire serves to uncover the truths of society in a clear and direct fashion. With the problematic lifestyle of Strepsiades and Pheidippides, Aristophanes addresses how the injustice of the democratic system progressively moving towards a system of oligopoly. Similarly, aristocrats are able to control society by molding the political agenda to fit their needs, intellectuals use rhetorical skills to get away with their bidding. In this essay I will argue that Clouds by Aristophanes captures the corrupt nature of individuals who try and remake laws or customs for the purpose of gaining money and power. Through the the implications that arise from a democratic political framework, and the transition between the superior and the inferior argument we see democracy s faulty nature; The desire for money and power is seemingly endless, illuminating democracy’s inabil ity to preserve stability. On another note, sophistry, commonly known as the art of using rhetoric to successfully argue any topic towards one s favor is often frowned upon in the play. Such a skill is carried out through the inferior argument that is discussed further in the play. Free thinkers like Socrates were known to be a corrupting force within Athenian society. But, getting rid of â€Å"bad† educators would fail to create a fair society, and much less fix the mistakes of those in power. Wiping out