In 416 BC in its war against Sparta, Athens instructed the fleet to break the small island of Melos’ alliance with its enemy. The Athenian historian Thucydides constructed the ensuing debate between the two, here very briefly summarised.

Melos: Whatever we say or do, it looks as if we will face either war or slavery.

Athens: If that is your attitude, we may as well stop now.

Melos: But there is such a thing as fair play and just dealing. You too might need that one day.

Athens: We’ll take that risk. But our aim is to preserve........

© The Spectator