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For the form of this γνώμη cf. iii. 38. 1. The attempt to excuse the Argives by the suggestion that others, perhaps the Thebans, were yet more guilty is not convincing. While H. anxiously disclaims all responsibility for the stories which implied most clearly the guilt of the Argives, he seems to condemn them in his heart; cf. viii. 73. 3; Introd. § 30 c.

Since οἰκήια κακά should mean misfortunes (i. 153. 1; iii. 14. 10; vi. 21. 2), whereas αἰσχρά implies misdeeds, Macan suggests that H. has confused two ideas. Peoples constantly believe that their own troubles are worse than their neighbours' and as often that their neighbours' vices are worse than their own; more careful study might in each case convince them of error; but the two cases are distinct, though H.'s doctrine that wretchedness is the natural result of sin may account for his confusion between them. Stein would identify κακά with αἰσχρά.

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