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Empire

100. Thermopylae: Xerxes, Leonidas, and the 300

Nov 23, 2023
In this engaging discussion, historian Paul Cartledge, a Professor at Cambridge specializing in ancient Greece, dives deep into the legendary Battle of Thermopylae. He examines the resilience of Leonidas and his 300 Spartans against Xerxes' immense Persian army. Cartledge challenges traditional narratives, highlights the significance of engineering feats like the Hellespont bridges, and reflects on the daunting strategies and sacrifices during this iconic confrontation. Their defiant 'come and get them' response symbolizes an enduring spirit of courage and heroism.
54:06

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The Greeks used a clever tactic of feigning retreat and counterattacking, causing heavy casualties among the Persians.
  • A secret path discovered by the Persians led to the Greeks being surrounded and forced to make their final stand on a hill.

Deep dives

The Battle of Thermopylae: Day One

On the first day of the battle, Leonidas and the Greek forces employed a clever tactic. They feigned retreat, luring the Persian forces into pursuing them. However, when the Persians advanced, the Greeks swiftly turned around and launched a counterattack, causing heavy casualties among the Persians. The Greek shield walls and expert maneuvering allowed them to repel the Persian forces and inflict significant damage.

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