Empire 100. Thermopylae: Xerxes, Leonidas, and the 300
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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.
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Thermopylae's Historical Validity
- Herodotus's account of Thermopylae is questioned due to its absence in Persian sources.
- Archaeological evidence supports the battle's occurrence at Thermopylae, despite Persian silence.
Herodotus' Reliability
- Herodotus' reliability as a historical source is debated, particularly regarding the Thebans' role.
- Despite criticism, Herodotus remains a primary source, requiring careful consideration of his potential biases.
Pontoon Bridges
- Xerxes oversaw the construction of pontoon bridges across the Hellespont.
- These bridges, built by Egyptian engineers, consisted of lashed boats with an earthen walkway.
