How Demosthenes Built His Voice After Athens Laughed at Him

Many people assume confident public speakers were simply born that way. The story of Demosthenes, one of ancient Greece’s most celebrated orators, suggests otherwise. According to Plutarch’s account, Demosthenes was laughed at when he first addressed the Athenian assembly. His voice was weak, his breathing failed him and his speech was unclear. Humiliated, he nearly gave up. Instead, he trained in isolation. He reportedly worked for months in an underground room and shaved half of his head so he would be too embarrassed to go out. He also practised speaking with pebbles in his mouth, recited while climbing hills to strengthen his breath, and spoke over the sound of waves to prepare for noisy crowds. The city that once mocked him later admired his speeches. What skill do people praise you for today that you had to build quietly from a difficult beginning?

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