Dicaepolis: Comedy too can sometimes discern what is right. I shall not please, but I shall say what is true

Dicaepolis: Comedy too can sometimes discern what is right. I shall not please, but I shall say what is true

In the play "The Acharnians" by Aristophanes, the character Dicaepolis makes a profound statement about the power of comedy to reveal truths. Dicaepolis, a farmer who is tired of the ongoing war between Athens and Sparta, decides to make a separate peace treaty with the Spartans in order to secure peace and prosperity for himself and his family. This decision goes against the prevailing sentiment in Athens, where war is glorified and those who seek peace are seen as traitors.

Dicaepolis' declaration that "Comedy too can sometimes discern what is right" is a bold assertion of the ability of comedy to reveal truths that may be obscured by the prevailing narrative. In ancient Greece, comedy was a popular form of entertainment that often satirized and critiqued the political and social issues of the day. Through humor and satire, comedians like Aristophanes were able to challenge the status quo and question the actions of those in power.

Dicaepolis' statement also speaks to the idea that truth is not always pleasant or easy to accept. In his quest for peace, Dicaepolis knows that he will not please everyone, but he is committed to speaking the truth as he sees it. This willingness to speak truth to power, even at the risk of personal consequences, is a powerful and courageous act that is often associated with the pursuit of truth.