Pericles vs Xun Yu

Pericles introduced pay for jury service and public officials, allowing poorer citizens to participate in government. He also strengthened the power of the assembly and the popular courts, reducing the influence of the aristocratic Areopagus.

Pericles initiated the building program on the Acropolis, including the Parthenon, using funds from the Delian League. The temple, dedicated to Athena, became a symbol of Athenian power and classical architecture.

Pericles led Athens into war with Sparta and its allies. His strategy involved avoiding land battles and relying on the navy and the Long Walls. The war lasted 27 years and ended with Athens' defeat, but Pericles died early in the conflict.

Pericles delivered a speech honoring the Athenian war dead, as recorded by Thucydides. The oration articulated the ideals of Athenian democracy, freedom, and civic duty, becoming a foundational text of Western political thought.

A devastating plague struck Athens during the Peloponnesian War, killing a third of the population, including Pericles himself. The overcrowding caused by Pericles' war strategy exacerbated the outbreak, leading to social unrest and his temporary removal from office.

Xun Yu counseled Cao Cao to bring Emperor Xian to Xu, establishing the emperor under Cao Cao's control. This move gave Cao Cao political legitimacy and the ability to issue edicts in the emperor's name, a key strategic advantage.

Xun Yu recommended numerous talented individuals to Cao Cao's service, including Xun You, Guo Jia, Chen Qun, and Zhong Yao. These appointments strengthened Cao Cao's administration and military command.

During the Battle of Guandu, Xun Yu advised Cao Cao to hold his position and wait for Yuan Shao's supplies to dwindle, rather than retreating. This strategy was crucial to Cao Cao's eventual victory over Yuan Shao.

Xun Yu publicly opposed Cao Cao's proposal to accept the title of Duke of Wei and the Nine Bestowments, arguing it would undermine the Han dynasty. This opposition led to a rift with Cao Cao and Xun Yu's subsequent death, either by forced suicide or illness.