In Our Time: History

Cyrus the Great

11 snips
Apr 10, 2025
In this discussion, Lindsay Allen, a Senior Lecturer in Ancient Greek and Near Eastern History, Lynette Mitchell, a Professor Emerita in Classics, and Mateen Arghandehpour, a researcher at Oxford, delve into the intricate history of Cyrus the Great. They examine the dual nature of his legacy, contrasting his reputation as a liberator with his brutal conquests. The conversation highlights the significance of the Cyrus Cylinder, debates on its status as a human rights document, and how Cyrus's political strategies fostered tolerance and stability within his vast empire.
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ANECDOTE

Cyrus's Origin Story

  • Herodotus tells a story of Cyrus being abandoned as a baby and raised by a cowherd.
  • He eventually overthrows his grandfather, fulfilling a prophecy.
INSIGHT

Xenophon's Political Cyrus

  • Xenophon's portrayal of Cyrus focuses on ideal leadership, using him as an example.
  • He emphasizes securing willing obedience through rewards and punishments.
INSIGHT

Conquest of Sardis

  • Cyrus's conquest of Sardis involved a clever tactic: using camels to frighten the Lydian cavalry.
  • The horses shied away from the camels, leading to the Lydian defeat.
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