Title: Anabasis
Author: Xenophon
First published January 1, 401
516 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780806113470 (ISBN10: 0806113472)
Rating: 4.1
Overview
Xenophon was a prominent Athenian philosopher born in 431 B.C, who was exiled from Athens and lived in Sparta for many years before settling in Corinth. In his book Anabasis, Xenophon shares his firsthand account of the march to Persia, where he and other Greeks joined Cyrus to overthrow Artaxerxes and claim the throne.
Xenophon played a pivotal role in the return of the Greeks following their defeat, chronicling the events that took place between 401 B.C. and March 399 B.C. Join Xenophon on this epic journey and experience the thrill of adventure, courage, and betrayal like never before.
About the Author
Xenophon, a soldier and mercenary, lived in Athens during ancient Greece around 431-355 BC. He was a contemporary and admirer of Socrates, and his writings on the history of his own times, ancient Greece, and preserving the sayings of Socrates are highly regarded.
His notable works include historical and biographical pieces such as Anabasis (also known as The Persian Expedition), Cyropaedia, Hellenica, and Agesilaus. Xenophon also wrote several Socratic works and dialogues such as Memorabilia, Oeconomicus, Symposium, Apology, and Hiero.
Additionally, Xenophon wrote short treatises on various topics such as On Horsemanship, The Cavalry General, Hunting with Dogs, Ways and Means, and the Constitution of Sparta.
Editoral Review
Xenophon’s Anabasis is an ancient Greek work of historical narrative, following the expedition of Cyrus the Younger and the ensuing journey of a group of Greek mercenaries as they traverse hostile terrain in enemy territory. This classic piece of literature, first published in 401 BCE, has stood the test of time and maintained its influence on Western literature and culture.
The author, Xenophon, was not only a historian but also a philosopher, soldier, and mercenary. He was a contemporary of the philosopher Socrates and a student of his teachings; his philosophical background is noticeable in the stoic tone that permeates Anabasis.
Anabasis is a work of historical non-fiction that follows a group of ten thousand Greek mercenaries as they embark on an expedition led by Cyrus the Younger, a claimant to the Persian throne. This expedition, which ultimately failed in its goal of placing Cyrus on the throne, resulted in the Greeks being stranded in hostile territory, forcing them to face a series of battles and endure severe hardships to return home.
At the heart of Anabasis are the Greek soldiers and their personal struggles during the conflict. Xenophon details the lives of soldiers in great detail, emphasizing their brotherhood, bravery, and loyalty while highlighting their human flaws and foibles.
The book is significant for its historical importance, as it provides scholars insight into the political and social structures of ancient Greece and Persia. Additionally, the work has provided inspiration to countless military leaders and served as a manual for warfare.
The power of Anabasis lies in Xenophon’s ability to paint a vivid and captivating picture of the harsh realities and dangers of warfare while also emphasizing the bravery and brotherhood of the Greek soldiers. His writing has a lyrical quality, making the reader feel as if they are experiencing the soldiers’ journeys alongside them.
Anabasis is not without its flaws, however. The book suffers from a lack of character development, and it is the soldiers as a collective that takes center stage, not individual soldiers.
Additionally, Xenophon’s writing style can be stilted and dry, making the reading experience uneven at times. Despite its flaws, Anabasis remains a classic work of literature that has stood the test of time.
It provides insight into the ancient world and continues to influence modern military strategy and tactics. For those interested in ancient Greek history or military strategy, Anabasis is a must-read.
Overall, Anabasis deserves an 8 out of 10. Although the book suffers from a lack of character development, it is still a captivating narrative that provides profound insights into the human condition, military strategy, and ancient Greek culture.
