THE KNIGHTS. 31

It is only fair to say that a view of ‘Cleon’s character and policy very
different from that which we get from Aristophanes, and, it may be
added, from Thucydides, may be found in some modern writers, notably
in Mr. Grote and Sir George Cox. (“Greek Statesmen,” second
series. ) 4

“It should be explained that there are five characters in the story:
1, Demos (people), who is represented as a selfish old man, of a very
uncertain and fickle temper, very hard on old servants who have done
well for him for years, and taking up with new favourites who humour
his caprices and minister to his appetites. The original of this is the
Athenian people.

2 and 3. Two old servants whom I call Victor and Hearty. They are
now out of favour with their master, thanks to the interference of a new-
comer, Bluster (or the Tanner), and look about for some means of get-
ting rid of their oppressor. The originals are two well-known Athenian
soldiers and statesmen, Nicias (#é#é—victory) and Demosthenes
(sthenos — strength, and demos—the people). These names nowhere
occur in the play, but the characters were doubtless recognized at once
by the resemblance of their masks to the features of the originals. -

4. Bluster (or the Tanner) = Cleon,

5. The Sausage-seller, destined to be Demos’s new favourite,

A body of “ Knights” or “ Gentlemen ” is present, and takes the part
of Bluster’s enemies.

“WHAT a scandal and a shame it is!” cried Hearty,
coming out of Demos’s house, followed by Victor ;
“ever since Master brought home that scoundrel
Bluster, not a day passes without his thrashing us
unmercifully ; confound him, I say!”

“And I say so, too,” cried Victor, rubbing his
arms and shoulders.

Hearty. “Well, it is no good cursing and crying.
We must do something. What do you propose ?”’

Victor, Can’t you propose something yourself ?”

ff, “No, no! TI look to you.”