Expert: Maria - 7/2/2006

Question
What is greek oration?
i dont understand.

Answer
Hello,

Generally speaking  a  Greek oration is either “a formal speech, especially one given on a ceremonial occasion” or “a speech delivered in a high-flown or pompous manner”.

The English  word ‘oration’ derives from Latin ‘oratio’ meaning  just "speech”, especially the speech which was delivered by politicians (e.g. Iulius Caesar ) and lawyers (Cicero).

In English we add the adjective “Greek” to the noun “oration” because the first and greatest orators / lawyers of the classical era (5th century BC–4th century BC) were just Greek, like for example Lysias, Isocrates, Aeschines, Demosthenes.

Have a nice day.
Maria