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αἰτίας ἂν προστιθέντες, ὡς φρονεῖ τὰ Βρασίδου.
The phrase ὡς φρονεῖ τὰ Βρασίδου is a strikingly elliptical and idiomatic construction. While φρονέω typically governs a dative or takes a prepositional phrase with εἰς/ἐπί to indicate the object of one's thoughts or intentions, here it takes a direct accusative object (τὰ Βρασίδου) meaning 'to have the same intentions as Brasidas' or 'to be of Brasidas' mind.' This usage, particularly the neuter plural accusative functioning as the object of mental state, is rare in Aristophanes and reflects a specific colloquialism or perhaps a metrical necessity that obscures the standard syntactic expectation. The construction implies a shared political or military mindset, likely alluding to Brasidas' aggressive expansionist policies in the north, which the Chorus or characters are accusing the Athenians of emulating through their current diplomatic posturing ('adding reasons'). The phrase τὰ Βρασίδου is not a standard genitive of possession but a substantive neuter plural meaning 'the things/intentions of Brasidas,' a usage that requires careful parsing to avoid misinterpreting it as a simple attribute.
Peace. Aristophanes. . 2026-09-08.