Join Dr. Ruud Konijnendijk, an Oxford ancient history expert, and Professor Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones from Cardiff University as they dissect the ambitious reign of King Xerxes and his monumental invasion of Greece. They explore the gripping battle strategies of Thermopylae and Salamis, shedding light on Xerxes' complex motivations and the significance of naval power. Discover the intriguing role of Artemisia, a female leader challenging norms, and the cultural symbols of earth and water that shaped Persian ambitions.
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Xerxes' Ascension
Xerxes' ascension to the Persian throne wasn't guaranteed.
His lineage and military capability were key factors.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Persian Influence on Athens
Persian coins were hoarded by wealthy Athenians, showcasing the Persian king's warrior image.
Persian goods became trendy in Athenian culture.
insights INSIGHT
Herodotus' Narrative
Herodotus' account of Xerxes' decision to invade Greece is a literary construct.
It reflects a Greek perspective, not necessarily historical reality.
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In 'Orientalism,' Edward Said critiques the Western construction of the Orient as a place of mystery and exoticism. He argues that Orientalism, as a discipline and worldview, is inherently tied to European imperialism and serves as a powerful instrument of domination. Said examines how Western literature, academia, and politics have perpetuated colonialism and imperialism by creating and reinforcing stereotypes and myths about the East. He traces the development of Orientalism from its roots in the 18th century to its contemporary implications, emphasizing the intimate relationship between knowledge and power and the need to challenge these dominant discourses[1][3][5].
Persians
The Age of the Great Kings
Lloyd Llewellyn Jones
This book tells the epic story of the Achaemenid Persian Empire, from its founding by Cyrus the Great around 550 BCE to its fall to Alexander the Great in the late 330s BCE. Llewellyn-Jones provides a detailed and engaging account of the empire's expansion, its bureaucratic and cultural systems, and the intricate royal relationships. The book corrects common misconceptions by offering a Persian-centric view, drawing on Iranian inscriptions, cuneiform tablets, art, and archaeology. It emphasizes the empire's multicultural nature, its significant advancements, and its enduring legacy in modern-day Iran.
Xerxes and the Persians
Xerxes and the Persians
Lloyd Llewellyn Jones
In 486 BC, King Xerxes ascended the Persian throne, inheriting its vast and glittering world empire. But his ambition didn’t stop there - he sought revenge on Greece.
In this episode of The Ancients, the culmination of our two-part series on the Persian Wars, Tristan Hughes is joined once again by Dr. Roel Konijnendijk and Professor Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones to explore Xerxes' massive invasion. From the assembling of his colossal army to the legendary battles of Thermopylae and Salamis featured in the accounts of Herodotus, discover the earth-shattering conclusion to the largest invasion ancient Greece had ever faced.
Presented by Tristan Hughes. Audio editor is Aidan Lonergan, the producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.
All music courtesy of Epidemic Sounds
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