Book Description
Anabasis is a historical narrative by the ancient Greek general Xenophon, written in the genre of memoir and travel literature. This significant work provides valuable insights into the experiences of Greek mercenaries and is a foundational text in the study of leadership and perseverance in adversity.
The plot of Anabasis unfolds as Xenophon recounts the journey of the “Ten Thousand,” a Greek mercenary army stranded deep in Persian territory after the death of Cyrus the Younger. Led by various commanders, including Xenophon himself, the soldiers face numerous challenges, including treachery, harsh terrains, and hostile forces. Key characters include the ambitious but ultimately flawed leaders and the resilient soldiers who rely on their wits and camaraderie to survive. Central themes include the struggle for survival, the nature of leadership, and the bond forged through shared hardship, making it a timeless tale of courage and resourcefulness.
Excerpt from Anabasis by Xenophon
Now when Darius was dead, and Artaxerxes was established in the kingdom,
Tissaphernes brought slanderous accusations against Cyrus before his brother, the king,
of harbouring designs against him. And Artaxerxes, listening to the words of
Tissaphernes, laid hands upon Cyrus, desiring to put him to death; but his mother made
intercession for him, and sent him back again in safety to his province.He then, having so escaped through peril and dishonour, fell to considering, not only how
he might avoid ever again being in his brother’s power, but how, if possible, he might
become king in his stead. Parysatis, his mother, was his first resource; for she had more
love for Cyrus than for Artaxerxes upon his throne.Moreover Cyrus’s behaviour towards all who came to him from the king’s court was such
that, when he sent them away again, they were better friends to himself than to the king
his brother. Nor did he neglect the barbarians in his own service; but trained them, at
once to be capable as warriors and devoted adherents of himself.
