The Battle of Thermopylae from Herodotus Research Assignment

Students Name: Bilha Mukuha
Professors Name: John R Krenzke
Course: TC295.HIS.101.015B.SP17
Date: 28 Jan 2017
The Battle of Thermopylae from Herodotus
Herodotus and His Significance
As detailed in the provided primary source, Herodotus is related to the invasion of the Greek mainland by the Persian king Xerxes in 480 B.C. Herodotus was, therefore, a Greek historian born in Halicarnassus within the Persian Empire and a contemporary of Socrates. Herodotus was referred to as one of the Fathers of History who was known to have broken the Homeric traditions. As a discipline, it is essential to consider that the significance of Herodotus begins with this figure in establishing the first known systematic investigations over the past conflicts that resulted between the Barbarians and the Greeks. Herodotus engages in the publishing of results in his inquiries with the hope to preserve the memories of the past as an historian, by putting them on record on the astonishing achievements of the Greeks and their counterparts. This clearly details the manner in which different races came into conflict. However, it is notably important to consider that his works were undeniably incorrect and biased, an aspect attributed to the fact that his works were based on hearsays and tales that were heard, hence radicalizing myths which have no base in history.
Xerxes as Superstitious and Tyrannical Figure
According to the source provided, Xerxes in portrayed at the mastermind of the Greek invasion from the histories that characterized Herodotus as a famous historian who gave an account of the battle of Thermopylae. It is, therefore, significant to consider that the text portrays Xerxes as a superstitious and tyrannical figure with evidence of this despicable in his plans to march an army through Europe against the Greece. On the other hand, Xerxes is depicted to put every effort in burning Athens through the extension of the Persian territory through Europe and his initiative in the beheading of his master-builders including the lack of mercy towards his slaves and his five sons (Herodotus n.p).
On the other hand, Xerxes superstition is showed when he sends for the Magians to give them information on why the sun disappeared and the day turning into night. In response to these actions and the battle, the Spartans enlighten Xerxes of their strong will and their drive to push on even when faced with challenges. Xerxes inappropriate behavior is pointed out in literature, with most authors inferring to him as an arrogant individual, a flicker and a man of power. Being in full procession of the throne, Xerxes is painted as tyrannical in his failures in considering aspects that displease him, believing that the public was in favor of his ideologies empirically in preparation to invade Greece. In his strategy, he sends off heralds into Greece, who were required to demand for earth and water, with no preparations made on where to feast the king. Upon hearing that he is full of wrath, he gives orders that the Hellespont need to receive three hundred lashes, with a pair of fetters casted on it.
Events of the Battle Informing About the Spartan Culture
Sparta, as depicted in the events of the battle, is portrayed as a warrior society within the ancient Greek society that reached the full height of its power following a defeat of the rival city-state of Athens in Peloponnesian War. In this case, it is vital to consider that the Spartan culture was centered and developed on the element of loyalty to the military service and state. Spartan boys were admitted for military service and education at a younger age including socialization programs. The Spartan culture, therefore, emphasized on the essence of duty, endurance, and discipline. In as much as the Spartan women were not considered for any roles in the military, they were educated and enjoyed the status of freedom as compared to the Greek women (Herodotus n.p). The military alliance that the Spartan diplomats acquired in the autumn of 481 was known as the Corinthian League. This is considered to have resulted in adverse auspices that have an Oracle of Athenians. The Spartans, therefore, learned from the Delphian prophetesses that they would see their city in ruins or the death of a king.
Values of the Greek Society Promoted in Herodotus Narrative
The human need for resolving conflict is a constant factor in life that is demonstrated throughout the readings of the Greek society. As established in Herodotus, the historical tales of wars and battles are depicted in epic proportions, thus establishing the constant theme that revolves around these writings. Herodotus, therefore, majors on the aspect of fights and battles including the cultural beliefs of the Greeks that believed in the element of war as a necessary aspect of the society and the needed to b...