Using at least two direct, full-sentence quotes from the speech, discuss the concept of Athenian excellence as it is outlined in Thucydides’ account of Perikles’ Funeral Speech

Please provide the best answer for the statement.

1. Perikles emphasizes the importance of democracy in his explanation of Athenian greatness, but he takes pains to point out that government of all by the “many” does not exclude the importance of Athenians’ striving for and recognition of “excellence,” which explains their military prowess and superior achievement in athletics and the arts.
2. For Perikles, the pursuit of excellence goes hand in hand with the pursuit of the good and the beautiful, which entails an appreciation for thought and reflection. This pursuit does not lead to a loss of “manliness” but does require an appreciation for material comfort without ostentation or avarice and a commitment to participation in the affairs of state.