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Cover of Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great, Volume 7: Little Journeys to the Homes of Eminent Orators

Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great, Volume 7: Little Journeys to the Homes of Eminent Orators

Written by Elbert Hubbard

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About this book

"Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great, Volume 7" by Elbert Hubbard is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. This volume focuses on notable orators throughout history, including figures such as Pericles and Mark Antony, exploring their lives, contributions, and the impact they had on society. Hubbard provides an engaging blend of biography and historical reflection, aiming to celebrate these great figures and offer insights into their accomplishments and philosophies. At the start of this work, the author introduces the ancient Athenian leader Pericles with poignant reflections on his life and legacy. Hubbard presents a rich narrative that details Pericles' influence on Athenian democracy, his patronage of the arts, and his intimate relationship with Aspasia. The writing captivates readers with its lyrical style, intertwining historical facts with philosophical musings. The opening engages with the strong themes of love, power, and the burdens inherent in leadership, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the great orators to follow in the collection.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great, Volume 7: Little Journeys to the Homes of Eminent Orators, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • inspirational
  • reflective
  • historical

Elbert Hubbard's "Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great, Volume 7: Little Journeys to the Homes of Eminent Orators" is a captivating collection of early 20th-century biographical essays celebrating the lives and legacies of influential speakers throughout history. Through a blend of historical narrative and philosophical reflection, Hubbard explores figures like Pericles and Mark Antony, examining their contributions to society, their personal lives, and the enduring impact of their eloquence. The volume begins with a poignant and lyrical exploration of Pericles, setting a tone of admiration and deep insight into the burdens of leadership, the power of speech, and the intersection of art, politics, and personal relationships. It serves as an inspirational and reflective study of human greatness through the lens of oratorical skill.

“The orator is the man who can sway the will of the multitude, who can move men to act, to fight, to die for a cause.”

Key themes

The Power of Rhetoric and Eloquence
This is the central theme, exploring how the ability to speak persuasively, to articulate ideas, and to sway public opinion has shaped history, driven political movements, and defined the legacies of individuals. Hubbard showcases how orators used their words to inspire, command, and lead.
Leadership and its Burdens
Hubbard consistently examines the responsibilities, sacrifices, and personal costs associated with great leadership. He portrays leaders not just as powerful figures, but as individuals grappling with immense pressures, public scrutiny, and often tragic personal circumstances.
The Pursuit of Legacy and Immortality
The book implicitly investigates what drives individuals to achieve greatness and how their actions and words contribute to an enduring legacy. Hubbard emphasizes that true greatness transcends immediate success and leaves an indelible mark on history and culture.

Worth discussing

How does Hubbard define 'greatness' through the lives of the orators he profiles? Do you agree with his criteria?

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