Casting Through Ancient Greece: Recent Episodes
Mark Selleck
A podcast about the history of ancient Greece for people new to and familiar with Ancient Greek history.The Casting Through Ancient Greece podcast will focus on telling the story of Ancient Greece starting from the pre history through Archaic Greece, Classical Greece and up to the Hellenistic period. Featured throughout the podcast series will be Major events such as the Greek and Persian wars, The Peloponnesian war and Alexander the Greats war against Persia. www.castingthroughancientgreece.com for more resources and creditsSupport the series at www.patreon.com/castingthroughancientgreecefacebook: casting through ancient greeceTwitter: @casting_greece
This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "A League by Choice?" found over on Patreon.
A voluntary alliance can feel like freedom right up until the day you try to leave. After the Greek victory over Persia in 479 BC, more than a hundred islands and coastal city-states align themselves with Athens in what becomes the Delian League. We walk through why that choice makes sense at the time and why it isn’t as simple as “Athens forced an empire on unwilling allies.”
We start with the road not taken: Sparta. Even with its wartime prestige, Sparta’s priorities stay anchored in the Peloponnese, its naval capacity is limited, and the helot system makes long overseas commitments dangerous. Add the reputational blow of Pausanias in Byzantium, and the eastern Aegean has every reason to look elsewhere for steady leadership. Athens, newly empowered by a fleet funded through the Laurean silver mines and proven in the Persian Wars, can actually patrol the Aegean Sea, protect trade routes, deter Persian interference, and speak to a shared Ionian identity many communities recognize.
Then we track how the league’s mechanics reshape its politics. Contributions shift from ships and crews to tribute, and what looks like a convenient budget choice slowly centralizes force, money, and decision-making in Athenian hands. The revolts of Naxos and Thasos show the turning point: joining may be voluntary, but withdrawal becomes a trigger for siege, disarmament, and lost autonomy. Even so, many allies stay because the benefits remain real and rebellion is costly and uncertain.
If you care about ancient Greece history, the Delian League, and how security pacts evolve into empires, you’ll find plenty to argue with here. Subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review with your answer: when does an alliance stop being a choice?
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A king is murdered, a throne becomes a prize, and the world’s biggest empire has to prove it can still hold together. We pull away from the Peloponnesian War just long enough to track the Persian succession shocks that set the stage for Persia’s return to Greek politics, starting with the assassination of Xerxes and the hard-won rise of Artaxerxes I. Along the way, we sort Babylonian cuneiform evidence from Greek accounts packed with intrigue, and we ask what those contradictions tell us about propaganda, perspective, and how ancient history gets written.
From there, we follow the early tests of Artaxerxes’ rule, especially the Egyptian revolt led by Inaros and the disastrous Athenian intervention in the Nile Delta. It’s a sharp reminder that the Achaemenid Empire is not just a backdrop to Greek history: it has its own internal pressures, powerful nobles, and regional flashpoints that can either drain imperial attention or force rapid adaptation.
The story then turns to the chaotic handover after Artaxerxes’ death and the violent climb of Darius II. Once stability returns, Persia pivots west with a smarter approach than invasion: leverage. We dig into how Persian objectives in Asia Minor shape support for Sparta, why Tissaphernes and Pharnabazus pursue different strategies, and how later decisions, including the rise of Cyrus the Younger, help set up the flow of Persian silver that changes the naval war against Athens.
If you enjoyed this deep dive into Persian successions, satrap politics, and the Persian Empire’s role in the Peloponnesian War, subscribe, share the episode, and leave a review so more listeners can find the series.
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Athens wins at Salamis, but what happens when the man most associated with that victory becomes politically untouchable? We close out our Themistocles series by following the messy aftermath of the Persian Wars, where glory fades fast and the real fight becomes reputation, alliances, and survival inside Athenian democracy.
We walk through Themistocles’ return to power and his vision for rebuilding Athens with the future in mind, especially the push for fortifications and the long shadow of Spartan rivalry. The centerpiece is the diplomatic gamble that defines his style: stalling and misleading Sparta just long enough for Athens to complete its walls, turning a disputed plan into an irreversible fact. From there we track the next phase of Athenian maritime strategy, including the Piraeus as the key harbor and the drive to keep the trireme fleet growing, the foundation of Athenian naval power in the Aegean.
Then the floor drops out. Political enemies capitalize on stories of arrogance, rule-bending, and alleged Persian connections tied to the Pausanias affair. We follow the ostracism, the escape across Greece, and the moment Themistocles chooses the unthinkable path: seeking refuge in the Persian Empire. At Artaxerxes’ court he remakes himself again, earns favor, and governs Magnesia, before the story ends with competing accounts of his death and a lingering legacy that reaches back to Athens and forward through his descendants.
If you enjoyed this deep dive into Themistocles, Athenian politics, and Greek history after the Persian Wars, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review. What part of his rise and fall feels most familiar today?
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Athens doesn’t just lose a battle in Sicily, it loses the foundation of its power. We start with Thucydides’ brutal assessment of the Sicilian Expedition: a fleet shattered, an army trapped, commanders executed, and survivors driven into captivity. Then we follow the story where it gets even more unsettling, back home in Athens, as rumors arrive that sound too impossible to believe. A city that has lived on naval dominance for generations suddenly has to imagine life without triremes, without trained rowers, and without the veteran hoplites who defend Attica.
From there, we walk through what the disaster actually costs: warships effectively vanishing, thousands of citizens dead, the treasury strained by two massive expeditions, and an empire now held together by confidence more than capability. As panic spreads and fears of revolt rise, Athens responds with emergency governance and hard choices. We talk through the leadership crisis, the creation of the proboloi, the push to rebuild the fleet, and the financial reforms that include a 5% tax on maritime trade, all designed to keep the city alive long enough to fight the next round.
Finally, we widen the lens to the geopolitical chain reaction: Sparta senses opportunity, allies look for exits, and Persia reenters Greek affairs as the one power with the money to change the naval balance. We trace the competing agendas of satraps like Tissaphernes and Pharnabazus, the role of Alcibiades, the pivot toward Chios, and how earthquakes, debate, and delay produce a risky three-pronged strategy aimed at Chios, Lesbos, and the Hellespont. If you’re following the Peloponnesian War for the big turning points, this is one of them. Subscribe for what comes next, share the episode with a fellow history fan, and leave a review with your take on Athens’ best move after Sicily.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Themistocles Pt 3 found over on Patreon.
Themistocles doesn’t just “win” the Battle of Salamis, he engineers the conditions that make winning possible. We pick up the story with Athens’ high-stakes decision to pour wealth and politics into sea power, expanding to a fleet of triremes that will soon face Xerxes’ massive second Persian invasion. Along the way, we talk through how Themistocles steers Athenian thinking, including his influence on how the Oracle of Delphi is understood, and why the Hellenic League’s unity is always more fragile than the legend suggests.
From Artemisium to Salamis, the episode tracks the ugly mechanics of coalition warfare: commanders who want to withdraw, rival cities protecting their own interests, and a strategy debate that becomes personal. We walk through Themistocles’ most important arguments for fighting in narrow waters, his confrontation with the Corinthian commander Adimantus, and the pressure he puts on Eurybiades by reminding everyone that the Athenian fleet is the keystone of Greek defense.
Then comes the turning point: when persuasion won’t hold the alliance together, Themistocles acts in secret. We unpack the Sicinnus message, how it tempts Xerxes into blocking the straits, and how Aristides’ return confirms the trap has closed. The result is a decisive naval victory at Salamis, followed by messy post-battle politics, Themistocles’ brief celebrity, and hints of the backlash that soon pushes him into the background until his next dramatic chapter.
If you enjoy deep dives on ancient history, Greek strategy, the Persian Wars, and the leadership choices behind famous battles, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more listeners can find the series.
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Athens didn’t just lose in Sicily. It ran out of time, ran out of space, and finally ran out of choices. We pick up the story at the moment the expedition is already wobbling, when Nicias can see the danger but can’t bring himself to force the clean decision that might save the army. From there, every delay becomes a gift to Syracuse and every half-measure turns into another locked door on the way out.
We walk through the campaign’s brutal turning points: Syracuse learning fast under pressure, the arrival of Gylippus and the sudden jump in enemy competence, and Demosthenes’ desperate night attack on Epipolae that almost works until confusion shatters it. Then the escape window slams shut. An eclipse stops the withdrawal, the Great Harbour becomes a cage, and Athenian naval supremacy is stripped down into a close-quarters brawl that ends with a broken fleet and an army stranded on hostile ground.
From the march toward Catana to the collapse at the Asinaris River, we follow Thucydides’ stark account of morale, discipline, deception, and fear. We also step back and ask the bigger ancient history questions: is the Sicilian Expedition best explained by Nicias’ hesitation, Alcibiades’ recall and defection, volatile Athenian democracy, imperial overreach, logistics and geography, enemy adaptation, or sheer contingency like disease and timing? If you care about the Peloponnesian War, military leadership, and how great powers stumble into catastrophe, this is the episode that connects the battlefield to the system behind it.
If this helped you see Sicily more clearly, subscribe, share the show with a friend who loves ancient Greece, and leave a review so more listeners can find it.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Themistocles Pt 2" found over on Patreon.
A single line from Delphi forces Athens to gamble everything: “the wooden wall.” Is it an old barricade on the Acropolis, or is it the fleet Themistocles fought to build? We pick up our Themistocles series at the moment his naval policy becomes more than politics, it becomes survival, as the second Persian invasion looms and Athens races to turn shipbuilding into a workable war plan.
We follow the chain of decisions that pull the Greek world into a fragile coalition. The Congresses of Corinth create the Hellenic League, but unity comes with ego, mistrust, and a command structure that leaves Athens supplying ships while Sparta calls the shots. A rushed northern move into Thessaly collapses, pushing the allies back toward the paired defense at Thermopylae and the naval stand at Artemisium. When the Greek fleet wavers, Themistocles keeps it in place through a mix of argument and silver, and we break down what three days of fighting reveal about tactics, morale, and the brutal arithmetic of attrition.
Then the story turns darker and sharper: retreat, scorched resources, psychological warfare against Persian-aligned Ionians and Carians, and finally the desperate regroup at Salamis as Athens burns. Themistocles must stop the fleet from running south and convince allies that Salamis is where Greece can still win. If you care about ancient history, Greek naval warfare, the Persian Wars, and how leadership works when everything is breaking, this chapter is for you. Subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review with the moment you think Themistocles changes the course of the war.
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Athens is the greatest naval power in Greece, yet in Sicily it starts to feel helpless. We pick up the story at the moment Nicias sends a careful, politically protective message home and the Athenian Assembly hears what it wants to hear: send more ships, send more men, and force victory. That decision to double down shapes everything that follows, because it gives Syracuse and Gylippus time to do what Athens assumes no one can do, learn fast enough to beat the Athenian navy.
We walk through how the Syracusans adapt their triremes and tactics for the cramped waters of the Great Harbor, where classic Athenian maneuver warfare matters less than brute collisions, grappling, and discipline under pressure. Demosthenes arrives with major reinforcements and tries to end the campaign with an immediate strike, including a daring night assault on Epipolae. Thucydides’ account of the darkness, the noise, and the sudden collapse into confusion makes the disaster feel personal, not abstract, and it pushes the generals into a brutal debate: withdraw now while the sea is still open, or stay and gamble on uncertain intelligence and political cover.
Then fate, religion, and timing collide when a lunar eclipse delays a secret departure, exposing Athenian intentions and letting Syracuse close the trap. From there the narrative accelerates into the decisive naval battles, the death of Eurymedon, a blockade at the harbor mouth, and a final desperate attempt to break free with improvised “Iron Hands” designed for close-quarters combat. The end result is not just a tactical loss but a morale collapse so complete that crews refuse to man the ships again.
If you want the Sicilian Expedition explained with clear stakes, leadership lessons, and vivid ancient naval warfare details, press play. Subscribe, share the episode with a friend who loves history, and leave a review so more listeners can find the series.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Themistocles Pt 1" found over on Patreon.
Athens doesn’t wake up one day as the master of the Aegean. It gets argued into that future, one hard political fight at a time, and Themistocles is the kind of figure who can win those fights. We follow his rise from an obscure early life to the point where he becomes the driving force behind a maritime strategy that will redefine Athenian power during the Persian Wars.
We dig into what our ancient sources actually give us, especially Herodotus and Plutarch, and where later storytelling may be shaping the legend. From the political upheavals of Athens after the age of tyrants to the opportunities opened by democracy, Themistocles learns to build support where it counts. That support isn’t just about charisma. It connects directly to policy: ports, walls, and the idea that triremes and rowers can become the backbone of national security and influence.
The turning point comes with the Laurion silver windfall and the showdown with Aristides. Do you distribute wealth to citizens right now, or invest in a fleet that could decide the next war? We walk through the arguments, the stakes, and the ostracism vote that removes Themistocles’ main opposition and signals a new identity for Athens as a naval power.
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A general sends home a letter that sounds like a warning and Athens treats it like a challenge. Nicias lays out the ugly reality at the Siege of Syracuse: stretched supply lines, sickness in camp, fading morale, and a siege that is slipping out of his control. He offers two paths, reinforce hard or abandon the Sicilian Expedition, but the city’s leaders hear the part they can live with politically: the campaign can still be won if they just commit more.
I walk through why that interpretation takes hold. Nicias’ cautious reputation shapes how readers judge his words, and his own incentives push him to be indirect and share responsibility for the decision. Underneath it all sits the psychology of sunk costs and prestige. Athens has already spent silver, ships, and lives, and a withdrawal could look like weakness to allies across the Athenian Empire and encouragement to Sparta. The result is a dramatic escalation as Athens raises another fleet and army under Demosthenes and Eurymedon.
Meanwhile the war widens. Sparta fortifies Decelea in Attica, turning pressure on Athens from seasonal to constant, disrupting routes and revenues. In Sicily, Gylippus and the Syracusans push the Athenians back toward the Great Harbor, seize crucial forts and supplies, then finally crack the Athenian navy with adaptation and deception: fatigue tactics, tight harbor geometry, and missile troops aimed at the rowers. Reinforcements arrive at the last moment, but the stakes only grow larger.
Subscribe for the next chapter of the Sicilian Expedition, share this with a friend who loves military history, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show.
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What if the alliance that crushed Persia had become a lasting settlement? We revisit the brief window after Plataea and Mycale when Greece looked coordinated, and we test a bold idea: Athens commands the sea, Sparta secures the land, and both accept firm limits. From the outside it sounds elegant. Inside the machinery, doctrine, ideology, and economics pull the partnership apart.
We trace why Spartan warfare favored short, decisive campaigns tied to helot stability, while Athenian power thrived on long-haul naval pressure, trade protection, and cumulative influence across the Aegean. Those clashing tempos made joint strategy awkward: one side sought closure, the other needed continuity. Then we tackle freedom itself. Sparta equated liberty with order and control; Athens tied it to participation and autonomy at home and, increasingly, among allies abroad. Each city believed it defended Hellenic freedom, yet each defined it in ways the other found threatening, turning coordination into a contest of values.
Material realities widened the gap. The Piraeus, tribute, and fortified long walls made Athenian security inseparable from projection. Spartan strength remained agrarian and territorial, built for defense rather than maritime governance. Pausanias’s overreach hastened a shift: Sparta withdrew from Ionia as Athens organized the Delian League, converting emergency leadership into durable influence. Could institutions have rescued a dual hegemony—arbitration councils, command rotations, codified spheres? Perhaps in theory, but the polis world resisted supra-city authority, and neither side could reliably practice the self-restraint required.
Across strategy, culture, and political tempo, the same pattern emerges: wartime unity simplified choices; peacetime complexity revived incompatible logics. The result is a clear takeaway for students of ancient history and statecraft alike: alliances can win battles, but only institutions and shared definitions turn victory into order. If you found this exploration useful, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves Greek history, and leave a review with the single reform you think might have saved the partnership.
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Siege lines rose like ribs around Syracuse, and for a moment it looked inevitable: Athens would seal the city by land and sea and claim a victory to match its ambition. Then a Spartan named Gylippus found an open path, a counterwall bit into Athenian plans, and the balance turned in a single campaigning season.
We walk through the decisive mechanics of the siege: the capture of Epipolae, the fort at Labdalum, and the careful logic of building north and south walls to throttle supply. You’ll hear how targeted Athenian raids shattered early Syracusan counterworks, why the marsh approach to the Great Harbor mattered, and how a split-second battlefield recovery cost the bold general Lamachus his life. Inside Syracuse, morale plunged and talk of surrender spread—until Corinthian ships slipped the net and Gylippus marched overland to reframe the war.
From that point, the terrain of decision shifted. Gylippus struck at Lebdalum, forced Athens to defend too many seams, and completed a counterwall that kept Syracuse connected to the hinterland. Cavalry and javelin men exploited open ground, driving the Athenians back behind incomplete lines. Nicias moved supply points to harbor forts for safer seaborne logistics, but the longer haul to the heights invited harassment, fatigue, and a slow bleed of ship crews and morale. The result was a strategic stalemate tilting toward the defenders.
At the heart of this chapter is Nicias’s stark letter to the Athenian assembly, a rare moment of strategic honesty: withdraw entirely and accept the costs, or reinforce massively with hoplites, cavalry, money, and shared command. No half measures. From the safety of a calm Athens, the choice felt simple—send more. That confidence, nurtured by empire and habit, set the stage for a larger reckoning as Syracuse rallied allies and trained a fleet to contest the last Athenian advantage at sea.
Listen for tactical lessons on siegecraft, counterwalls, and the danger of leaving a single approach unguarded, alongside the political lesson that ambition without mass invites reversal. If this deep dive sharpened your view of the Sicilian Expedition, follow the show, share it with a history-loving friend, and leave a quick review to help others find the series.
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Victory monuments told one story; Persian strategy told another. We pull back the curtain on how the Achaemenid Empire absorbed defeat at Salamis, Plataea, and Mycale yet remained a decisive force by changing methods, not goals. Instead of chasing glory with grand invasions, Artaxerxes I prioritized containment, stability, and leverage—allowing satraps in Lydia and Phrygia to steady the western frontier while a smaller, cautious fleet protected trade and preserved options.
From there, influence replaced occupation. We dig into the mechanics of Persian soft power: subsidies that traveled faster than armies, patronage that bent city councils, and diplomacy that rewarded neutrality over risk. Athens saw restraint and assumed weakness, expanding across the Aegean under the Delian League. Sparta turned inward, certain the danger had passed. Both misread endurance for absence, creating the very fractures Persia needed to shape outcomes from a distance.
Across the decade after Mycale, the empire learned to turn Greek rivalry into a strategic asset. Gold outlasted galleys, and patience outperformed spectacle. By the mid-fifth century, Persian support and timing influenced wars it never fought, ensuring that no single polis could dominate unchecked. If you’re curious how superpowers pivot after failure—and how soft power, satrapal governance, and maritime caution can reset a geopolitical game—this story offers a clear, surprising blueprint for durable influence.
Enjoy the episode? Follow, share with a history-loving friend, and leave a review telling us where you see this long-game strategy echoed in today’s world.
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A shocked city, a careful army, and a plateau that decides everything. We follow the tense weeks after Athens’ first win outside Syracuse, when momentum gave way to method. Nicias, often branded cautious, makes a hard strategic choice: pause late in the season, refill the coffers, request cavalry, and prepare for a siege that can actually hold under pressure. Meanwhile, Syracuse hears Hermocrates at last. His blunt case—discipline over bluster, reform over blame—shrinks a muddled command, tightens training, and sends envoys to Corinth and Sparta to turn a local crisis into a panhellenic cause.
The political map of Sicily comes into sharp focus as Camarina keeps a careful distance, Naxos and Regium quietly help Athens, and both sides court allies who can tip supplies, harbors, and morale. Then the war’s center of gravity jumps across the sea. Alcibiades escapes and arrives in Sparta with insider detail and a plan to exploit Athenian overreach. His advice sparks two decisive moves: dispatching Gylippus to steady Syracuse and fortifying Decelea to bleed Attica. Intelligence, timing, and audacity reshape the conflict more than any single skirmish could.
Through winter 415–414 BCE, the Athenians work with rare clarity. Catana becomes an operating base; ships are refit; scouts trace Syracuse’s walls and water. The conclusion is simple and stark: win the Epipolae Heights or lose the siege before it begins. Spring brings speed. A quiet sail, a rapid landing, and Lamachus’ night march seize Euryelus, the gateway to the plateau. Engineers mark lines. Syracuse counters. For a moment, the expedition reaches its high watermark, the city nearly within an encircling wall. But with Gylippus on the horizon and a reformed Syracuse ready to contest every trench, the hard road truly begins.
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Victory didn’t end the story; it changed the rules. After Mycale and Plataea, the Persian threat receded, the Aegean opened, and a vacuum pulled Athens, Sparta, and Persia into a new contest—one fought with fleets, diplomacy, and competing visions of security. We walk through the decade that followed 479 BC to show how shattered empires, cautious land powers, and ambitious sea powers redrew the map of Greek politics.
We unpack Persia’s strategic shift from invasion to consolidation: naval losses that invited Ionian revolts, satraps scrambling to stabilize Lydia and the Hellespont, and a measured pivot to subsidies and envoys that exploited Greek divisions. On the mainland, we contrast Sparta’s deliberate restraint—defending the Peloponnese, avoiding distant obligations, and prioritizing social stability—with Athens’ awakening to maritime destiny. The Athenian fleet becomes more than defense; it becomes identity, food security, and leverage, soon anchored by the Piraeus and the Long Walls.
At the heart of the story sits the Ionian question: who protects the liberated cities when Persian garrisons fall away? Athens answers with ships and treaties that coalesce into the Delian League—a standing alliance promising collective security while granting Athens command of contributions and strategy. We explore how the League funds naval expansion, extends operations to Cyprus and the Hellespont, and slowly turns cooperation into hegemony. Along the way, we track the emerging fault line with Sparta, as allied poleis navigate between land hegemony and sea hegemony, and Persia watches for fractures to widen.
By the end, freedom has returned to the Aegean, but unity has not. That paradox—liberation without consensus—sets the foundations for the classical Greek order, Athenian naval supremacy, and the rivalries that will define the fifth century. If power abhors a vacuum, this decade shows who rushed in, why they moved, and how their choices reshaped the world. Subscribe, share, and tell us: which decision mattered most—the Spartan retreat, the Athenian fleet, or Persia’s long game?
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Bronze flashed on the water and songs filled the air as our fleet left the Piraeus, but the shine faded fast along the Italian coast. Harbors opened while hearts stayed closed, Segesta’s “treasure” dissolved into borrowed plate, and our grand design was forced to contend with supply lists, neutral cities, and the creeping cost of time. We lay out how awe met caution in Magna Graecia, why admiration didn’t translate into alliances, and how an expedition sold on momentum stalled before the straits.
Inside the armada, strategy split three ways. Alcibiades treated diplomacy as the first battlefield, Lamachus argued for a decisive strike, and Nicias warned that every day ashore drained our strength. Then Athens called Alcibiades home to face charges, and he slipped into exile—taking with him both political cover and a unifying vision. Meanwhile, Syracuse moved from rumor to readiness. Hermocrates urged a coalition and preemption; Athenagoras dismissed invasion talk and accused rivals of stoking panic. A measured course prevailed: arm, scout, and prepare. We follow that shift, the quiet coup that delivered Catana, and the dispiriting tour that yielded little more than thirty talents.
The turn comes with a ruse. Nicias baited the Syracusans into marching north as our ships slid south to the Olympion. The battle that followed was tight and testing: veteran cohesion against raw numbers, archers and peltasts picking seams, cavalry blunted by terrain and haste, and a sudden storm breaking nerves. We won the field and raised a trophy, but not the decisive victory that ends a war. From there, the real stakes emerge—where to plant a permanent base, how to choke Syracuse without cavalry, and how to keep a divided command aligned as the city behind us grows impatient.
Sail with us through shifting alliances, political gambits, and battlefield deception as the Sicilian Expedition moves from pageantry to peril. If this story gripped you, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves ancient history, and leave a review with the moment you found most surprising.
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A continent-spanning empire bore down on a patchwork of rival city-states—and out of that pressure, a people discovered themselves. We follow the Greek victories over Persia from raw survival to a moral origin story, showing how memory, art, and ritual transformed urgent alliance into a lasting idea: Hellenic freedom.
We start with the fragile coalition that met the Persian advance at Salamis and Plataea, then uncover how the meaning of those battles grew in the retelling. Simonides’ epigrams, Pindar’s odes, and Herodotus’ sweeping narrative forged a panhellenic lens through which courage, divine favor, and self-rule became the Greek signature. Monuments like the Serpent Column at Delphi and offerings at Olympia turned sanctuaries into archives of unity, while annual rites at Plataea and Salamis taught that freedom must be renewed, not assumed.
Athens made the memory visible. Rising from a burned Acropolis, the city reframed myth as politics on the Parthenon, casting Greeks versus Amazons and gods versus giants as a code for order resisting tyranny. At the same time, naval power rewired society. Themistocles’ triremes elevated the rowers—the thetes—and widened democratic voice, seeding the Delian League and a new maritime identity. That shift sharpened the contrast with Sparta’s land-first conservatism, foreshadowing rivalry even as the ideal of Hellenic liberty took root.
We connect these threads to later thinkers and leaders. Thucydides uses the Persian War as a baseline of necessary unity. Plato and Isocrates hold it up as a mirror for civic virtue. Alexander taps its emotion to justify conquest. Across centuries, the wars became sacred history and a durable myth: free citizens against imperial despotism, reason over hubris. Listen for a richer view of how battles end but stories begin—and how those stories still guide debates on power, identity, and the price of freedom. If this sparked new questions or changed your view, subscribe, share, and leave a review with the one idea you’ll remember most.
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Trumpets sounded over the Piraeus and a city’s confidence took shape in bronze and oars. We follow the launch of the Sicilian Expedition from the charged votes in the Assembly to the glittering departure ritual that Thucydides captures with chilling clarity, tracing how a cautious proposal spiraled into the most costly armament a single Greek city had ever sent to sea. Along the way, the story exposes the fragile scaffolding beneath the spectacle: stretched finances, untested logistics, and a leadership trio whose visions for victory did not neatly align.
We unpack why Nicias’s warning inadvertently enlarged the mission, how private wealth and public funds turned ships into floating symbols of prestige, and what it really took to feed, water, and coordinate 134 triremes and thousands of troops far from home. The mood in Athens—joy, pride, and hunger for pay and glory—meets a jolt of fear when the Herms are mutilated. That sacrilege, and accusations of mocking the Eleusinian Mysteries, recast the expedition as a test of piety as much as power. Alcibiades demands an immediate trial to clear his name; conservatives stall, aiming to blunt his momentum. He sails under suspicion as informers multiply and recall whispers gather force.
At sea, strategy tightens into choices. Lamachus urges a quick strike on Syracuse; Nicias wants patience and proof; Alcibiades argues for encirclement through alliances. The route through Corcyra and the heel of Italy doubles as diplomacy, but support proves thin. Regium offers only its harbor; Segesta’s promised silver dissolves into theater. The expedition’s grand math starts to wobble, and the Athenians confront the hard truth that empire projected across the Ionian is measured in barrels and treaties, not just in votes and bravado.
If you value deep dives into ancient strategy, politics, religion, and the human psychology behind big decisions, tap follow, share this episode with a history-loving friend, and leave a review telling us which strategy—direct strike, slow build, or alliance-first—you would have chosen.
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Empires can lose in stages—and the moments in between can matter most. We dive into the chain that turned Xerxes’ massive gamble into Greek momentum: the trap at Salamis, the phalanx at Plataea, and the “forgotten victory” at Mycale that shifted the war from survival to liberation. Step by step, a divided world of city-states learned to think as one, using geography, coalition discipline, and psychological pressure to unmake Persian dominance of the Aegean.
We start with the strategic stakes of 480–479 BCE, when Athens and Sparta put rivalry on hold to exploit narrow seas and favourable ground. Salamis shows how triremes, tight channels, and local knowledge shattered a larger fleet and denied Persia the supply lines that kept its army viable. Plataea follows with a land reckoning: Pausanias’ coalition absorbed missile fire, closed ranks, and broke Mardonius’ force, clearing central Greece and puncturing the myth of Persian inevitability.
Then comes Mycale on the Ionian coast, where the meaning of victory changes. Persian ships beached, Ionian units peeled away, and Greek hoplites stormed fortified positions—liberating cities that had long lived under satrapal rule. Near-simultaneous success at Plataea and Mycale delivered a morale shock the Persians couldn’t absorb and gave the Greeks ports, partners, and purpose. The result: a transition from defence to projection, the seeds of the Delian League, and a lasting story about unity, freedom, and the power of coordinated land–sea strategy.
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The complicated legacy of Pausanias, Spartan regent and commander at Plataea, reveals the razor-thin line between military glory and personal disgrace. When Persian forces under Mardonius threatened Greek freedom in 479 BC, it was Pausanias who stood at the forefront of the Hellenic coalition—a complex alliance of city-states with competing interests and traditions. His story offers a fascinating glimpse into the burdens of command during ancient warfare's most decisive moments.
Standing as guardian of Sparta's royal legacy after Leonidas' heroic fall at Thermopylae, Pausanias embodied the Spartan military ethos: disciplined, patient, and tactically conservative. These qualities proved crucial during the tense weeks before battle, as he resisted pressure from more aggressive allies, particularly the Athenians, who pushed for immediate engagement. His calculated restraint preserved the coalition's strength until conditions favored decisive action.
The battle itself began with chaos—a nighttime repositioning gone wrong left Greek forces scattered across the plain. When Mardonius seized this opportunity to attack, Pausanias demonstrated remarkable composure under intense Persian assault. Holding firm as arrows darkened the sky, he waited for the perfect moment to order the charge that would ultimately break the Persian line and claim Mardonius' life. This victory marked the definitive end of Persian ambitions on Greek soil.
Yet Pausanias' triumph contained the seeds of his undoing. Leading subsequent campaigns in the Aegean, he began adopting Persian customs and displaying an arrogance that alarmed both allies and fellow Spartans. His trajectory from disciplined commander to suspected traitor raises profound questions about how success affects character. Can the same qualities that bring victory in war—decisiveness, authority, self-confidence—become dangerous liabilities in peace? The paradox of Pausanias continues to fascinate: how could the savior of Greece transform so quickly into a figure his own people came to distrust?
Whether you're fascinated by ancient military tactics, the psychology of leadership, or the cultural tensions of the Greek world, Pausanias' story offers remarkable insights into how even history's greatest victories can cast long, complicated shadows over those who achieve them. Subscribe now to explore more untold stories from antiquity's most pivotal moments.
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The Sicilian Expedition stands as one of history's most infamous military disasters—a bold gamble that crippled Athenian power and ultimately sealed their fate in the Peloponnesian War. But what drove Athens to stake everything on this distant campaign?
When Segesta, a small Sicilian city, came seeking help against their rivals, Athens faced a pivotal choice. Though initially cautious, requesting proof of Segesta's resources and sending scouts to assess the situation, the Athenian assembly's deliberations quickly spiraled beyond simple alliance politics. The real drama unfolded in the clash between two visions of Athens' future: Nicias, the cautious veteran, warning against imperial overreach, and Alcibiades, the brilliant young aristocrat, painting visions of easy conquest and unlimited wealth.
What makes this moment so compelling is how Nicias' attempt to discourage the expedition by demanding excessive resources spectacularly backfired. Rather than deterring the assembly, his warnings only inflamed their ambition. The expedition ballooned from 60 ships to an unprecedented armada of 130 triremes and 5,000 hoplites—transforming a limited intervention into an all-or-nothing gamble on conquest.
Thucydides frames this decision as inevitable tragedy, the product of Athens' unchecked imperial appetite. Yet other ancient writers suggest the expedition wasn't doomed from inception—its failure stemmed from divided leadership, political sabotage, and cruel twists of fortune. This tension between deterministic failure and contingent possibility makes the Sicilian debate a perfect case study in how democracies make catastrophic military decisions despite warning signs.
The expedition's planning reveals deeper truths about Athenian society: their confidence after dominating the Aegean, their hunger for new conquests after the brutal subjugation of Melos, and the factional politics that would soon tear apart their command structure when religious scandals erupted on the eve of departure.
Listen as we explore this pivotal moment when Athens reached beyond its grasp—a decision still studied by military strategists today for its timeless lessons about ambition, overextension, and the dangers of democratic war-making.
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The aftermath of the Battle of Mantinea marks a critical turning point in the Peloponnesian War, as Sparta reasserts its dominance while Athens grapples with the moral contradictions of empire.
With their decisive victory at Mantinea, the Spartans restore their reputation and secure their position as the preeminent land power in Greece. This revival allows them to reinstall oligarchic governments throughout the Peloponnese, temporarily bringing even democratic Argos under their influence. But when Sparta's attention shifts during a religious festival, Argos seizes the opportunity to overthrow its imposed oligarchy and restore democracy, demonstrating the fragility of forced political arrangements in the Greek world.
Meanwhile, Athens finds itself paralyzed by competing political visions. Nicias advocates for moderation and recovery of territories in the north, while Alcibiades pushes for aggressive action against Sparta. This stalemate culminates in the final use of ostracism in Athenian history—a procedure that backfires spectacularly when both factions unite to exile the minor politician Hyperbolus instead of resolving their leadership struggle.
The conquest of Melos in 416 BCE stands as perhaps the most morally complex episode of the war. When this small, neutral island refuses to submit to Athenian demands, negotiations produce what Thucydides immortalizes as the Melian Dialogue—a stark confrontation between power politics and ethical principles that continues to influence political thought today. "The strong do what they can, the weak suffer what they must" becomes Athens' uncompromising position as they reject appeals to justice, fairness, and divine intervention.
The eventual fall of Melos and the brutal execution of its male citizens reveals the darker face of Athenian imperialism. What began as a defensive alliance against Persia has transformed into an empire maintained through fear rather than leadership. This episode of apparent success feeds a dangerous overconfidence in Athens that will soon lead them toward their greatest gamble and ultimate disaster—the Sicilian Expedition.
Subscribe now to follow this epic journey through ancient Greek history and discover how the tensions between power, justice, and hubris continue to resonate in our world today.
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Two distinct military systems, two worldviews, one decisive battlefield. The clash at Plataea in 479 BCE represents far more than a Greek victory over Persian invaders – it embodies the collision of fundamentally different approaches to warfare, each reflecting the society that created it.
Following the naval defeat at Salamis, Persian King Xerxes withdrew with most of his forces, but left his trusted commander Mardonius with an elite army estimated at 70,000 men. This wasn't merely an occupation force but a carefully selected contingent designed to bring the Greek campaign to a decisive close. With its diverse troops drawn from across the vast Persian Empire, this army excelled in mobility, missile warfare, and cavalry tactics – elements that had fuelled Persian expansion across the ancient world.
Standing against this imperial host was the Greek coalition, cantered around the hoplite phalanx – heavily armoured citizen-soldiers fighting in tight formation. Each man carried a large round shield (aspis), bronze helmet, chest plate, greaves, and long spear, creating a formation where survival depended on maintaining cohesion with one's neighbours. This military system directly reflected Greek civic values – interdependence, discipline, and collective action for the polis.
The preliminary phases revealed the contrasting strengths of both approaches. Persian cavalry successfully harassed Greek positions, disrupting supply lines and forcing the hoplites into defensive postures ill-suited to their equipment and training. Yet when Mardonius mistook a Greek repositioning for retreat and ordered a full attack, the disciplined Spartan and Tegean hoplites demonstrated the phalanx's devastating effectiveness in close combat. Mardonius' death in the melee shattered Persian coordination, transforming their advance into a catastrophic rout.
What makes Plataea fascinating isn't just the outcome but the complex interplay of factors that produced it. The Greek victory stemmed not from inherent military superiority but from effectively exploiting favourable terrain, maintaining psychological resilience, and capitalizing on the moment when conditions suited their strengths. The battle became a cultural touchstone that shaped Greek identity for generations – a moment when citizen-soldiers defending their homes prevailed against history's greatest empire.
Curious about how ancient military innovations continue to influence modern strategy? Subscribe to explore more pivotal moments where tactics, technology, and human determination reshaped history.
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The battlefield at Mantinea in 418 BC witnessed one of the most consequential clashes of the Peloponnesian War, a moment when Sparta's reputation hung in the balance. Following years of diplomatic erosion and military hesitation, King Agis led a massive Spartan force north to confront a growing coalition threatening to unravel Sparta's entire alliance system.
What unfolded on that plain near Tegea wasn't merely a battle of spears and shields, but a collision of political visions for Greece. Alcibiades' ambitious strategy of isolating Sparta through diplomatic maneuvering had gained dangerous momentum. Even Tegea, Sparta's original partner in founding the Peloponnesian League, was considering changing allegiance. For Sparta, defeat would mean watching their carefully constructed hegemony crumble; victory might restore the respect their recent failures had squandered.
The battle itself reveals fascinating insights into ancient warfare and leadership. As the armies advanced toward each other—Spartans moving deliberately to flute music, Argives charging with fury—King Agis attempted a complex battlefield maneuver that nearly spelled disaster. The gap that opened in the Spartan line was exploited by elite Argive troops, while some Spartan commanders refused to execute orders they deemed too risky. This moment of crisis tested not just Spartan discipline but the very nature of battlefield command.
Ultimately, Sparta's victory transformed the political landscape. Argos was forced back into the Peloponnesian League, with Spartan garrisons installed and democratic institutions replaced by oligarchy. Athens saw its strategic opportunities in the Peloponnese vanish. Yet despite its immediate significance, Mantinea didn't fundamentally alter the war's trajectory—the stalemate between Athenian naval power and Spartan land dominance persisted for another decade. What the battle truly represents is Sparta's remarkable capacity to recover from adversity when its traditions and position were most threatened. Listen as we explore this pivotal moment when the fate of Greece hung in the balance.
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his is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Sparta's About Turn" found over on Patreon.
The precarious Greek alliance against Persia hung by the thinnest of threads in 479 BCE. After watching Athens burn twice while Sparta refused to march beyond the safety of the Peloponnese, Athenian patience had run out. When their final delegation arrived in Sparta, they delivered what amounted to an ultimatum: stand with us against Persia, or we may have no choice but to negotiate on our own.
Behind Sparta's reluctance lay a complex web of motivations – their preference for defensive warfare, religious observances, fears of helot rebellion, and the delicate politics of their Peloponnesian alliance. While Athens had twice rejected Persian offers that included autonomy and even dominance over other Greeks, Sparta remained fixated on the defense of the isthmus wall. What changed?
Something remarkable happened within Spartan leadership. Whether driven by strategic necessity, emergence of leaders like Pausanias, or the stark realization that Athens might actually defect, Sparta suddenly mobilized on an unprecedented scale. Five thousand Spartiates marched forth, each accompanied by seven helots, joined by another five thousand perioeci. As they moved north, other Greek cities rallied to the cause, transforming a fractured resistance into the largest Greek army ever assembled.
This pivotal moment represents more than just military history – it captures a rare instance when bitter rivals Athens and Sparta found common purpose. Their brief alliance, forged in crisis, would determine not just the outcome of the Persian invasion, but shape the cultural and political landscape of the ancient Mediterranean for centuries to come.
Were you fascinated by this analysis of Greek politics and the fragile nature of their alliance? Subscribe now and support us on Patreon to access more bonus episodes that explore the crucial moments that shaped the ancient world!
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What happens when military might meets diplomatic cunning? In the fragile years following the Peace of Nicias, a dangerous dance unfolds across Greece as former enemies circle each other warily, neither willing to strike first yet both preparing for inevitable conflict.
Alcibiades emerges as Athens' bold strategist, orchestrating a brilliant campaign that uses military presence as leverage without actually breaking the peace. With just a small force, he marches confidently through Spartan territory, cutting supply lines and isolating allies in a masterclass of intimidation without battle. His gambit creates a web of alliances that threatens to strangle Sparta's influence across the Peloponnese.
Meanwhile, King Aegis of Sparta finds himself trapped between military necessity and political reality. When his massive army finally surrounds the Argives in what should be a decisive victory, he makes the shocking decision to negotiate a truce with just two Argive generals—no armies or governments consulted. This fateful choice nearly costs him everything, as enraged Spartans plot to destroy his home and impose crippling fines, while one Argive negotiator barely escapes being stoned to death by his own people.
The true power of religion in warfare becomes starkly apparent as both sides manipulate sacred festivals and divine omens to justify strategic decisions. The Argives creatively redefine their calendar to avoid religious restrictions, while convenient "unfavorable omens" provide perfect cover for Spartan withdrawals when circumstances turn unfavorable.
This episode reveals how the machinery of war often runs on factors far beyond battlefield courage—personality conflicts, political ambitions, and the complex dance between military leaders and the governments they serve. As the peace crumbles beneath the weight of unresolved grievances, we witness the seeds being planted for one of the most consequential battles of the entire Peloponnesian War.
Ready to discover how four men stopped an army of thousands? Listen now and join us as we unravel the fascinating diplomatic maneuvers that would ultimately change the course of Greek history.
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The fragile Peace of Nicias shatters as competing interests and broken promises drive Athens and Sparta back toward conflict. At the heart of this diplomatic unraveling stands Alcibiades, a charismatic young general whose ambition would reshape Greek politics and alliances.
When Corinth, feeling betrayed by peace terms that threatened their colonial claims, encouraged Argos to form a rival power bloc, the seeds of renewed warfare were planted. Sparta's subsequent alliance with Boeotia directly violated their peace agreement with Athens, while the contentious destruction of Panactum's fortifications by Boeotian forces created a perfect opportunity for anti-peace factions in Athens to gain traction.
Alcibiades emerges as the perfect character for this moment of political intrigue. Wealthy, handsome, well-connected to Athens' most prestigious families, and raised in the household of Pericles himself, he possessed all the qualities needed for Athenian leadership. His masterful deception of Spartan delegates—convincing them to deny their negotiating authority before the Athenian assembly, then exposing this "lie" to undermine both Sparta's credibility and his rival Nicias—demonstrates the cunning that would make him one of history's most fascinating figures.
The resulting alliance between Athens and the Peloponnesian democracies of Argos, Elis, and Mantinea represented a dramatic shift in the Greek power balance. Sparta's humiliation continued with their exclusion from religious ceremonies at the 420 BCE Olympics, creating a perception of weakness that emboldened their enemies throughout Greece.
What makes this period so compelling is watching how individual ambition intersects with international relations. City-states maneuvered to protect their interests while ambitious leaders like Alcibiades exploited these tensions to advance their personal agendas. The stage was now set for the Battle of Mantinea, the largest land confrontation of the war thus far, where Sparta would attempt to reassert its dominance on the Peloponnese.
Have you considered how peace agreements can sometimes create more problems than they solve? Join us as we explore one of history's most consequential diplomatic failures and the ambitious individuals who shaped its outcome.
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Have you ever wondered how ancient empires managed the delicate dance of diplomacy and warfare? In this gripping episode, we unravel the complex strategies and political chess moves of the Peloponnesian War, spotlighting the pivotal period following 424 BC. Witness the dramatic rise and fall of Athens and Sparta as we dissect significant events like the Spartan defeats at Pylos and Sphacteria and Athens' bold military ventures. We also examine how setbacks at Megara and Delium fueled Sparta's resolve, leading to urgent peace negotiations. With a special focus on the cunning Spartan general Brasidas and his diplomatic ingenuity in Thrace, we unpack how his actions led to the revolt of key cities against Athens, culminating in the battle at Amphipolis and the fragile Peace of Nicias in 421 BC.
But the story doesn't end with the signing of a treaty. Journey through the tangled web of alliances and political intrigue as cities like Corinth and Elis contemplate breaking free from Spartan dominance by joining the Argive League. We explore the strategic calculations and shifting allegiances that marked this era, including the influence of differing governmental systems on these decisions. As tensions rise, experience the secret negotiations and alliance formations that unfolded between Athens and Sparta, highlighting the undercurrents of distrust and preparation for renewed hostilities. This episode provides a rare glimpse into the fragile power dynamics and the precarious balance of peace during one of history's most tumultuous times.
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Welcome to another episode of Casting Through Ancient Greece! In this episode, we delve into one of the most pivotal yet precarious moments of the Peloponnesian War: the Peace of Nicias.
After a decade of bitter conflict between Athens and Sparta, the year 421 BCE brought a glimmer of hope for peace. Named after the Athenian general and statesman who negotiated it, the Peace of Nicias was a formal attempt to halt hostilities. But was it truly a step toward reconciliation or merely a pause before the inevitable resumption of war?
Join us as we explore:
- The events leading up to the peace agreement, including the devastating losses and shifting alliances that made both sides desperate for a truce.
- The terms of the treaty, and how it sought to restore balance between Athens and Sparta.
- The challenges and controversies that arose immediately after its ratification.
- Why the Peace of Nicias ultimately failed, setting the stage for the even bloodier conflicts to come in the Peloponnesian War.
Through this episode, we’ll examine how this fleeting moment of diplomacy offers a fascinating lens into the political, military, and social dynamics of ancient Greece.
Tune in to uncover the fragile nature of peace in a world constantly at war and the lessons it still holds for us today.
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Witness the dramatic power play between two iconic city-states as we pull back the curtain on the strategic chess match that was the conflict over Amphipolis. Could the overconfidence of Athenian generals have been their downfall against the cunning maneuvers of Spartan general Brasidas? This episode promises insights into the mind games and tactical genius that unfolded, unraveling how Brasidas turned the tables on Athens with diplomacy and strategy, charting an unexpected course through the battlegrounds of Thrace. Brace yourself for revelations on how an initial Athenian advantage, following their victories at Pylos and Sphacteria, was compromised by a series of unforeseen events in the region.
As we explore the siege that disrupted the Athenian dominance, we examine the compelling narrative of Cleon's overreach and Brasidas's audacious ambush tactics that caught Athens off guard. Journey with us through the aftermath of the Battle of Amphipolis, where the city's citizens hailed Brasidas as a saviour, leaving Athens to grapple with the ramifications of their loss. The episode shines a light on the shifting geopolitical landscape, where both Athens and Sparta faced unprecedented challenges, prompting strategic recalibrations and new alliances. From the battlefield to the broader political stage, this episode captures the essence of a pivotal moment in ancient history, rich in dramatic twists and strategic lessons that continue to resonate.
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What if the triumphs of a powerful city could gradually slip away? In this episode of Casting Through Ancient Greece, we explore how Athens' dominance began to erode, not through immediate disaster, but through a series of missteps and lost opportunities. Once at the height of its military and political influence, Athens' advantage waned as strategic errors and unsuccessful campaigns chipped away at its position. From remarkable victories, such as the capture of over 120 Spartiates, to the costly setback at the Battle of Delium.
As we unravel the political turmoil within Athens, the spotlight is on Thucydides’ trial and subsequent exile, a move driven by internal rivalries and the ambition of figures like Cleon. Explore the broader ramifications of Brasidas' triumphs, which sparked revolts and coerced Athens into a temporary truce with Sparta in 423 BC. We dissect the fragile peace terms, the breaches that ensued, and the precarious nature of maintaining a truce amidst the chaos of war. The political machinations and the struggle for control within Athens reveal the deep complexities and the relentless pressures of leadership during this tumultuous period.
The episode culminates with a detailed look at the military and diplomatic maneuvers that defined this phase of the Peloponnesian War. Follow the Athenians’ strategic repositioning to capture Mende and besiege Scione, supported by Perdiccas of Macedon who thwarted Spartan reinforcements. Uncover the shifting alliances within the Boeotian League and the regional conflicts that further complicated the war. From the failed Athenian attempts to reclaim territories to the nuanced interplay of power, this episode offers a comprehensive understanding of the intricate military strategies and political manoeuvres that shaped the course of this historical conflict.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Opposing Plans" found over on Patreon.
Ever wondered how a narrow strait and a brilliant stratagem could turn the tide of history? Prepare to be captivated as we unravel the intricate strategies and pivotal moments leading up to and during the Battle of Salamis. Discover how Xerxes' hubris and determination to annihilate the Greek fleet led him to dismiss the sage advice of Artemisia, opting instead for a direct and ultimately disastrous naval confrontation. We'll break down the contrasting approaches of the Persian and Greek forces, delving into how Themistocles' genius, persuasive leadership and trickery kept the Greek coalition unified and strategically positioned in the treacherous Straits of Salamis.
Join us as we delve into Themistocles' mastery of psychological warfare and strategic manoeuvring. We'll recount the intense debates among Greek commanders and the crucial intelligence brought by Aristides, which confirmed the bait had been taken by Xerxes. As the battle unfolds, you'll learn how oracles and prophecies influenced critical decisions and boosted Greek morale, leading to a victory that would define the course of the Greco-Persian Wars. This episode promises a gripping exploration of the lead up to one of history's most consequential naval battles, shedding light on the cunning tactics and high-stakes drama that shaped the outcome.
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What if one man's daring ambition could change the entire course of a war? In our latest episode, we dive into the dramatic events of 424 BC during the Peloponnesian War, spotlighting the audacious Spartan general Brasidas. We’ll recount Athens' initial victories, like the fortification at Pylos and the shocking Spartan surrender at Sphacteria, and their setbacks, including the failed attempts to control Megara and Boeotia and the devastating loss at the Battle of Delium.
Follow Brasidas as he embarks on his bold campaign northward through the dangerous landscapes of Thessaly, employing shrewd diplomacy to navigate his way to Amphipolis. Discover how he forged key alliances with local oligarchs and negotiated with powerful figures like Perdiccas and Arabaeus. Brasidas’ calculated risks and strategic brilliance not only secured crucial territories but also inspired cities to revolt against Athenian rule, significantly boosting Spartan influence in the region.
Finally, we unravel the intricate political manoeuvres and shifting allegiances that defined Brasidas' campaign. Learn how his moderate terms for surrender and shrewd tactics led to the strategic capture of Athenian positions and a reshaped power dynamic. This episode provides a captivating look at the twists and turns of 424 BC, highlighting how one leader's vision and strategy could turn the tide of war. Tune in for an enlightening exploration of ancient Greek history and the brilliant tactics of a Spartan hero.
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Delve into Themistocles’ efforts to keep the Hellenic League united and his strategic manoeuvres to drive a wedge between the Persians and their Ionian allies. We also shed light on Xerxes' propaganda machine that sought to maintain Persian morale by downplaying their losses at Thermopylae.
As the Persian forces, guided by the Thessalian cavalry, sweep through Greece unopposed, we'll detail their ruthless destruction in Phocis and the legendary divine intervention that supposedly thwarted their attempt to sack Delphi. The narrative continues with the Persian advance into Boeotia and Attica, culminating in the brutal siege and destruction of Athens, fulfilling Xerxes' lust for vengeance. However, the campaign would continue and both sides now prepared for a maximum effort at sea.
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How did Athenian victories at Pylos and Sphacteria become the turning point in the Peloponnesian War? Discover how these pivotal moments forced Sparta to rethink their entire strategy and seek diplomatic solutions. We explore the newfound aggression in Athenian tactics as they aimed to isolate Sparta by targeting its allies, reshaping the geopolitical landscape of ancient Greece.
Uncover the dramatic and covert plans of Athenian generals Demosthenes and Hippocrates as they attempted to capture Megara amid its internal political chaos. The city, caught between conflicting factions, became a crucial battleground. Our narrative delves into the tense standoff that ensued when the plot was exposed, highlighting the complex interplay of local politics and strategic military operations.
Lastly, we shift our focus to the Athenian invasion of Boeotia and the consequential Battle of Delium. Learn about the strategic decisions and unique tactical formations employed by the Boeotians under Pagondas' command. From impassioned speeches to chaotic clashes, we unravel the heavy casualties and pivotal outcomes that redefined ancient Greek warfare. Tune in for an insightful analysis of these significant events and their lasting impact.
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Ever wondered how a single year could turn the tide in a protracted war? This episode takes you deep into the seventh year of the Peloponnesian War, uncovering the critical strategies and events that reshaped the conflict.
As we shift our focus to the campaigning season of 425 BC, the narrative gets even more gripping. Discover how Athens leveraged treachery and strategic brilliance to capture Anactunorium and gain control over the Peloponnesian fleet. The collapse of Spartan military prestige and the waning threats from Syracuse and Persia allowed Athens to strengthen its empire and secure its dominance by the end of the year. These developments set the stage for Athens to reassess its imperial strategies and bolster its defences, reshaping the balance of power in the war.
In our final segment, we dissect the aggressive Athenian campaigns that followed their successes at Sphacteria. The capture of Cythera and Thyrea, along with the invasions of Spartan territories, reveal a shift in Athenian military policy influenced by internal rivalries between figures like Cleon and Nicias. We delve into the political ramifications of these actions and how they exacerbated Spartan vulnerabilities. Join us as we unravel the dramatic shift in the course of the Peloponnesian War, showcasing Athens' ascension and Sparta's stagnation during these critical years.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Defence at Thermopylae" found over on Patreon.
What if a mere 300 soldiers stood between freedom and subjugation? Uncover the strategic genius and historical significance behind the Greek defence at Thermopylae during the Persian invasion. We'll break down why the rugged terrain of Thermopylae was the perfect stage for the Greek hoplites to mitigate the Persian numerical advantage and cavalry. Discover how the crucial naval defence at Artemisium played into this masterful coordination. We also dive into the fascinating rationale behind sending only 300 Spartans into battle and examine the total Greek forces involved in this legendary three-day clash.
The fall of Thermopylae is more than just a tale of heroism; it's a story of political intrigue and tactical brilliance. Explore the influence of a prophetic message from Delphi and Sparta's internal politics on the decision-making process. Was Thermopylae merely a holding action? We’ll dissect the implications for broader Spartan and Peloponnesian strategies. Relive each pivotal moment of the battle as the Greeks held their own against overwhelming odds—until betrayal exposed a critical mountain path to Xerxes.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
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The Athenian expedition to Sicily was an unexpected chapter in the Peloponnesian War, characterized by strategic missteps and unforeseen outcomes. As the Athenian fleet set out to aid their allies in Sicily against Syracuse, they found themselves caught in the whirlwind of war that stretched across the Greek world. From the Athenian prisoners on Sphacteria to the civil unrest in Corcyra, each event cascaded into the next, shaping the trajectory of the war. The delayed arrival of Athenian reinforcements to Sicily allowed Syracuse to regroup and counter-attack, leading to a stalemate that ultimately required Athenian withdrawal—a testament to the volatility of war and the importance of timely strategic decisions.
Amidst this complex backdrop, the Battle of Pylos stands as a testament to Athenian ingenuity and Spartan bravery. Demosthenes, the Athenian commander, overcame limited resources to construct strategic defenses at Pylos, setting the stage for a confrontation that would defy the expectations of both sides. The Spartans launched a ferocious assault, only to be repelled by the clever positioning and steadfastness of the Athenian defenders. The subsequent arrival of the Athenian fleet tipped the scales, demonstrating the razor-thin margin between victory and defeat in ancient warfare.
The political theatre that followed was equally charged. The peace negotiations between Athens and Sparta revealed the delicate balance of power and the grave consequences of political decisions. Sparta's willingness to negotiate due to the potential loss of their elite hoplites showcased the high stakes of the conflict. Yet, the breakdown of talks plunged the Greek world back into the throes of war, underscoring the fragility of peace in a time of unyielding ambition and honour.
The Siege of Sphacteria, a decisive engagement in the war, illustrated the strategic acumen of the Athenians under the joint command of Cleon and Demosthenes. Employing a mix of hoplites, archers, and light troops, the Athenians outmanoeuvred the Spartans, ultimately forcing a surrender that marked a watershed moment in Greek warfare. This victory, however, was not without its political machinations. The intense debates within the Athenian Assembly, the advocacy of Cleon, and the opposition from Nicias revealed the intricate relationship between military action and political manoeuvring.
The surrender of the Spartan forces on Sphacteria was a moment that altered the course of the Peloponnesian War. The image of Spartan warriors, famed for their indomitable spirit, surrendering to their Athenian captors was a stark contrast to their ancestors' last stand at Thermopylae. This historic event not only shifted the balance of power but also sent ripples through the societal structures of Sparta, igniting fears of helot uprisings and prompting desperate, yet futile, diplomatic efforts to reclaim Pylos and negotiate peace.
In sum, the Peloponnesian War's defining moments—from the Athenian naval might to the Spartan surrender on land—paint a vivid portrait of ancient warfare, political dynamics, and the enduring human quest for dominance. It's a narrative that continues to resonate through the ages, reminding us of the timeless lessons of history and the ever-present echoes of the past in our modern world.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Defence at Artemisium" found over on Patreon.
Welcome back, we delve deep into the annals of history to uncover the stories that shaped our world. Today, we're setting sail to the ancient waters of Artemisium, where a pivotal moment in Greek history unfolded.
Picture this: It's 480 BCE, and the Persian Empire, led by the indomitable Xerxes, is sweeping across the Aegean Sea with an armada of unprecedented size. But standing in their path are the courageous Greeks, determined to defend their homeland against overwhelming odds.
As the Persian juggernaut advances, the Greeks, under the strategic guidance of Themistocles, must make a critical decision: where to make their stand. And so, they choose Artemisium, a narrow strait off the coast of Euboea.
But why Artemisium? What factors led the Greeks to select this seemingly precarious location to confront the mighty Persian fleet? Was it merely a strategic necessity, or were there deeper reasons at play?
Join me as we unravel the mysteries of Artemisium, exploring the geography, the tactics, and the sheer determination of the Greek defenders. Together, we'll uncover the untold stories behind one of history's most remarkable battles, and gain new insights into the timeless art of war.
So hoist the sails, sharpen your spears, and prepare to journey back in time to the windswept shores of Artemisium. Our odyssey begins now.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
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Step back in time with me, Mark Selleck, as we trace the footsteps of Athenian generals post-Pericles, navigating the perilous landscape of public dissent and audacious military campaigns. The death of Pericles marked a significant pivot in Athenian strategy, and we'll peel back the layers of this tumultuous era, scrutinizing the aggressive maneuvers that propelled the city-state into the contentious Sicilian expedition. On the Spartan side, delve into the mysteries shrouding King Plistoanax's comeback and the alleged bribery scandal involving the Oracle of Delphi—an episode that further complicates the rich tapestry of Ancient Greek politics.
Feel the ground shake beneath your feet as we recount how natural disasters left indelible marks on Greek military decisions. The Spartans' superstitious interpretations of earthquakes fuelled a reimagining of their war tactics, prompting them to establish Heraclea. We'll examine how this strategic pivot eventually lost its lustre due to a combination of diplomatic hostility and internal mismanagement, revealing a side of Spartan governance seldom seen in their laconic annals.
The episode culminates with a gripping recount of the Athenian military blunders and unexpected victories. Demosthenes' disastrous Aetolian campaign serves as a stark reminder of the volatility of ancient warfare. Yet, amidst catastrophe, the crafty general redeems himself with a masterful victory in Ambracia. The resulting stalemate in the region underscores the broader lesson of our episode: that the tides of war in Ancient Greece were as unpredictable as they were ruthless. Join us for an enthralling exploration of this era's strategic intricacies and shifting alliances.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "The Greeks Unite" found over on Patreon.
Transitioning from the Persian might, our episode casts light on the labyrinthine world of Greek polis. We unveil how over a thousand autonomous entities, with their own dialects, governments, and customs, confronted an existential threat. The Greeks' struggle for unity is a narrative of alliances forged in the crucible of necessity, a testament to the power of collective action in the face of overwhelming odds. Accompanying us on this historical deep dive is our special guest, an esteemed historian whose knowledge paints a vibrant picture of an era where the fates of empires and free cities hung in the balance.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
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Embark on a voyage through the tempestuous waters of ancient Sicilian politics, where our narrative charts the ascendancy of Syracuse amidst a maelstrom of democracies emerging from tyrannical ruins. Unearth the seismic shifts in Athenian foreign policy that set a fleet towards Sicily's shores, seeking to weave a web of influence that could ensnare the Peloponnesian war machine.
Witness the Athenian fleet, under the command of Laches and Charoeades, as it threads through the Mediterranean, capturing cities and igniting the fuse of local uprisings with the promise of freedom from Syracuse's grip. The labyrinthine complexities of war and diplomacy play out across the Sicilian stage, where each move is a calculated risk in the pursuit of dominance. The Athenian quest for Sicilian allegiance unfolds with a narrative vigour, painting a vivid portrait of ancient warfare and the ever-present shadow of defeat.
Succumb to the enthralling tale of Athens' audacious Sicilian expedition, from the strategic insight behind their push into the western world to the unforeseen ramifications of their actions. The episode intricately weaves together the triumphs and tribulations of Athenian commanders, the resilience of cities, and the undercurrents of political change that ripple through time. Join us for a compelling recount of an era where the fates of empires hung by a thread, and the echoes of ancient strategies still resonate in the annals of history.
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As we gather today to mark a remarkable journey through the annals of Greek history, I am filled with gratitude and excitement. Together, we've traversed 83 episodes, spanning the rich tapestry of Greece from its nascent days to the dramatic onset of the Peloponnesian War. Looking ahead, I'm thrilled to contemplate the untold stories that may unfold beyond Alexander the Great's demise. It's a testament to your engagement and curiosity that we're even considering this expansion of our historical horizon. Moreover, I want to share a heartfelt thank you for your steadfast support—without which this podcast couldn't thrive. The evolution of our release schedule to a monthly episode is a move to safeguard the caliber of our storytelling, balancing the growing demands on my time with my commitment to providing you with the best possible listening experience.
Turning our gaze to the revamped Patreon offerings, we've sculpted new tiers with the aim of making our content even more rewarding and accessible. As we forge into the year ahead, anticipate a fresh rhythm of episodes—each one meticulously crafted for mid-month release, while our dedicated patrons can look forward to exclusive early-month content. I invite both our seasoned supporters and newcomers to explore the refreshed Patreon landscape, where a deeper dive into Greek history awaits. Your enthusiasm has been the bedrock of this podcast, and I'm eager to continue this shared passion for the stories that have shaped our world, as we embark on the next chapter of our historical quest.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Xerxes Invasion" found over on Patreon.
Step back in time with us and uncover the epic saga of Xerxes' colossal invasion of Greece. Imagine inheriting a crown and a vendetta: that's exactly what Xerxes faced as he ascended to the Persian throne, but was he burning with the ambition to subjugate all of Greece? As your guide through this march into history, I'll take you through the aftermath of the First Persian Invasion, revealing how initial Persian endeavours sowed the seeds for an even grander campaign. We'll scrutinize Xerxes' grandiose preparations for war, from manipulating Greek city-states to bend the knee through 'Medizing' to constructing monumental engineering marvels like the canal through Mount Athos and the bridge over the Hellespont. These efforts etched themselves into the annals of history, setting the stage for a conflict of legendary proportions.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
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Prepare to be transported to a Sicily that's both ancient and alive, where democracy's roots intertwine with the whispers of tyrants. On our historical odyssey, we'll traverse the landscapes of power, betrayal, and the unending quest for dominion. I promise an expedition into the heart of Sicilian intrigue, from the liberation of Syracuse to the theatrics of Hieron's tyranny, and the eventual emergence of revolutions that would forever alter the island's destiny.
Our narrative begins in the aftermath of the Greco-Persian Wars, charting a course through Sicily's golden age of peace to the tumultuous tides of 427 BCE. We won't shy away from the stark contrasts of rule, examining the cunning manoeuvres of Hieron as he clings to power, the bloody outcomes of political machinations, and the indelible marks left by tyrants on the fabric of their cities.
Finally, wisdom takes centre stage as we scrutinize the counsel of Simonides to Hieron, juxtaposing the downfalls of despots with the democratic reawakening of Syracuse. The intricate dance of Sicilian politics continues with revolts and power shifts, where the spectre of tyranny lingers, and the ambitions of leaders like Ducetius spark conflict and change. Join us for a profound look at ancient strategies and the timeless struggle for power, as we piece together the lessons history has etched into the stones of Sicily, setting the chessboard for the Sicilian expedition that awaits over a decade later.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Miltiades found over on Patreon.
Travel back in time to fifth century BC Athens, where the life of Miltiades—a man whose lineage was synonymous with both nobility and concern—takes center stage. From the influence of his uncle, Miltiades the Elder, to the Olympic chariot racing triumphs of his family, we explore the ascent and inevitable downfall of this enigmatic leader. As we weave through the tapestry of Miltiades' life, we're reminded of the fickleness of fame, especially in the volatile political climate of ancient Athens. It’s a story rich with the spoils of victory and the shadows of disgrace—a true reflection of the tumultuous era that shaped it.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, HereI
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Uncover the chilling drama of ancient conflict as we journey through the shadows of the Peloponnesian War—revealing the political chaos of Corcyra, and the tragedy of Plataea. This episode uncovers the tales of rebellion, siege, and the sobering reality of political strife, all through the compelling lens of Thucydides' historical narratives. Be prepared to witness the darker side of human nature, where the lust for power leads to a breakdown in social order and a wave of indiscriminate violence that shook the very foundations of Ancient Greece.
Step into the political arena of Corcyra where calculated moves and internal turmoil illustrate the complexities of Greek politics. We navigate through the strategic decisions that inflamed tensions and trace the harrowing outcomes of a society caught in the crossfire of war. The episode lays bare the ruthless political manoeuvres in a landscape fraught with desperation and strategic miscalculations, providing you with a profound understanding of the motivations and consequences that characterized one of history's most infamous conflicts. Join us and experience the intensity of a period where the line between friend and foe was perilously thin.
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Embark on a historical odyssey with us as we temporarily halt our regular series for a well-deserved January respite. However, the annals of ancient Greek history remain open with an exclusive miniseries treat—a deep exploration of the enigmatic Battle of Marathon. Journey back to 490 BC and unravel the mysteries of this legendary conflict through five episodes that will remain unfettered and freely accessible throughout the holiday season, a perfect complement to the main saga awaiting us in the coming months.
Looking ahead, we're reigniting the fires of fascination in February, where the narrative torch of the Peloponnesian War will be passed back to you, the esteemed listeners, whose zeal for the past powers our present endeavor. Expect the same meticulous attention to the storied details, driven by your encouragement and curiosity, which not only sustains our regular programming but also breathes life into the bonus content we so love to craft. A heartfelt salute to the patrons whose support elevates our capabilities—their contributions have not only sustained the digital hearth of our series but have also furnished the tools necessary to forge ahead with enhanced vigor. Join us, share with kin and comrades, and continue to shape the future of our historical quest with your invaluable suggestions and enthusiasm.
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Are you ready to cross the threshold of time and enter the world of Ancient Greece during the tumultuous political shifts post-Pericles' rule? I invite you to join us on this journey, where we scrutinize the uprising on Lesbos and its profound implications on Spartan maneuvers and Athens' retaliation. As power vacuums arise in Athens, new intriguing figures such as Nikies and Cleon rise to prominence. We delve into the fascinating personas of these men and how Cleon, a successful demagogue, secures his influence. We also shed light on the essence of a demagogue in the realm of Ancient Greek politics and its enduring sway.
Strap in as we navigate through the strategic negotiations and invasion preparations post the Olympic festival. We'll also analyse the Mytileneans desperate efforts to garner support from the Peloponnesian League. Watch as events on Lesbos unfold with the Athenians establishing a camp, and the Mytileneans strive to unite the island under their leadership. Lastly, brace yourselves as we explore the chilling decision of the Athenians in the wake of the failed Mytilenean revolt - a decision that echoes through the annals of history as an epoch-defining moment in the landscape of the Peloponnesian War.
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Have you ever been curious about an unsolved mystery from the past? Well, I, Mark, invite you on a thrilling journey to uncover the secrets of the Battle of Marathon in this exclusive bonus feature on Patreon. We're shifting our focus to the Greeks' tactical approach on the battlefield and raising thought-provoking questions about the Persian cavalry, despite their presence in various historical accounts and works of art, they would failed to be mentioned during the unfolding battle at Marathon.
Join me as we shed light on one of the most intriguing puzzles that has been lingering for over 2,500 years. Let's investigate the evidence from the likes of Herodotus and other resources in our quest to locate the elusive Persian cavalry and comprehend their role in the battle. This episode is your ticket to understanding the intricacies of ancient warfare. With every revelation, we'll step back in time to unravel the mysteries of the Battle of Marathon. So, what are we waiting for? Let's embark on this exciting journey as history unfolds before us.
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Are you ready to travel back in time and unravel the mysteries of ancient Greek philosophy with me, Mark Selleck, and our distinguished guest, Jack Visnjic, or as you might know him, Lantern Jack, is renowned for his profound knowledge in this philosophical domain. With a PhD in Ancient Philosophy from Princeton University, Jack brings an understanding that transcends time, illuminating the rich world of ancient Greek thinkers.
Our journey will transport you to the birthplace of philosophy, navigating through the socio-political intricacies of that era that birthed philosophical thought. We'll explore the groundbreaking ideas of pre-Socratic philosophers, before venturing into the epic intellectual realms of Socrates and Plato. Plato's revolutionary Theory of Forms and his famed allegory of the cave, which continue to evoke intrigue, will also take center stage. Our philosophical odyssey doesn't end there. The influence of the legendary Aristotle, his unique philosophical framework, and his invaluable contributions to science and logic will also be brought to light.
As we move forward in time, we'll examine the evolution of Greek philosophy, including the emergence of Stoicism, Epicureanism, and skepticism during the Hellenistic period. We'll delve deep into metaphysical concepts and the impact of this philosophy on modern ethical thinking. So, strap in for an enlightening journey through time and thought. Remember to stay connected and subscribe for more insightful episodes.
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In our return to the tumultuous third year of the war, the Chalcidice comes back into focus once more with renewed operations. The siege of Potidaea may have found resolution in the previous year, but with lingering hostility in the Chalcidice, Athens is forced to act. A fresh operation aims to secure Athens' base in Potidaea, a move designed to solidify their influence in the region. Little did they know, this venture would soon become an early lesson in the challenges of facing effective light troops.
Simultaneously, back on the Greek mainland, the stage is set for a gripping saga. Minor Peloponnesian allies successfully sway Sparta into launching a campaign at the mouth of the Corinthian Gulf. Embarking with only a portion of the Peloponnesian fleet, the Spartans face a cautious journey past the Athenian base of Naupactus. The amphibious operation, once arriving at its location encounters setbacks, grappling with issues of ill-discipline, divided forces, and the defenders' ingenious use of terrain, leading to a failed mission.
At Naupactus, the keen-eyed Athenian general, Phormio, observes the initial fleet sail by. However, when the remainder attempts to slip past, he springs into action. Despite being outnumbered, Phormio's superior tactics and intimate knowledge of the area secure a resounding victory. Nevertheless, the Spartans, undeterred after their land defeat, regroup for another naval engagement, placing the Athenians in a dire numerical predicament.
This time around, the odds are stacked against Phormio. After losing half his fleet, fortune smiles upon him, allowing his naval command prowess to shine. Athenian losses are miraculously recovered, and the Peloponnesian forces find themselves in a hasty retreat. Yet, Sparta, yearning for a triumph to bring home, decides on a bold move—an attempt to assault Athens' home port, the Piraeus.
However, the gods seem to favour Athens. Bad weather and a touch of commander hesitancy conspire against the Spartan ambitions, leaving them without the favourable news they sought for the year. Join us as we navigate the treacherous waters of ancient conflict and witness the highs and lows of naval warfare in this gripping chapter of the Peloponnesian War.
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Join us as we take you on an exploration of the fascinating world of the ancient Spartans. With Professor Paul Cartledge, a leading historian on the Spartans, as our guide, we will demystify the intriguing tales, values, and societal structure of this resilient warrior society. We'll wade through the Spartan mirage, unveiling the unique education system, political structure, and unrivalled military prowess that have shaped our understanding of this ancient civilization.
We're not stopping at the surface; we whisk you into the depth of the Spartan world and the wider Greek realm. We'll probe into the Spartan lifestyle, the Greek ideal of freedom, participation, agency, and involvement. Can you imagine a society where women commanded respect and power unlike their contemporaries? Well, get ready, we'll be discussing the unique status of Spartan women, their education, physical strength, and property rights.
What if we told you that Sparta's influence extends far beyond the ancient world, even to our modern-day society? Brace yourself for our exploration of the legacy of Sparta, its influence and misappropriation throughout history. We'll dissect the portrayal of the Battle of Thermopylae in the movie 300, contrast views of Sparta in the French Revolution, and examine how the Spartan mirage is perpetuated in North America. Immerse yourself in this captivating journey as we unravel the enigma that is Spartan society, their enduring values, and their lasting legacy.
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Embark on a riveting exploration of ancient Greece as we delve into the tumultuous events surrounding Pericles, a towering political figure who shaped the destiny of the city-state for nearly four decades. Follow the gripping narrative of Athens' struggle during the siege of Potidaea, where Pericles' efforts faced unexpected challenges, leading to intricate negotiations, strained resources, and even accusations from critics. Inside the city walls, witness the grim realities that unfolded, including the harrowing conditions that drove defenders to resort to cannibalism.
As the historical drama unfolds into the third year of the war, the focus shifts to Plataea, where Spartan king Archidamus spearheads a strategic campaign. Explore the motivations behind this unprecedented move, involving negotiations, Athenian support, and Plataea's resistance against Spartan attempts. The siege evolves into a complex blend of tactical moves, ultimately transitioning into a prolonged blockade, setting the stage for the dramatic events that would unfold in the fourth year of the war.
Venture into the intricacies of Pericles' political legacy, as his influence is tested by the challenges of the second year, marked by the devastating plague that befell Athens. Witness the political ramifications, including Pericles' temporary removal from power, his emotional struggles, and the poignant moment where he seeks an exception to a citizenship law he had once championed. Despite securing his family legacy, the narrative takes a sombre turn as Pericles succumbs to the same plague that gripped Athens, marking the end of an era and the life of one of the most influential political figures in ancient Greece. Join us on this enthralling journey to uncover the untold stories, complex alliances, and enduring legacies that shaped the course of history in classical Greece.
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Tad Crawford's Website
Buy On Wine-Dark Seas
Explore the literary world of Tad Crawford, acclaimed author of "A Floating Life: A Novel," "The Secret Life of Money," and numerous nonfiction books. With a National Endowment for the Arts award to his name, Crawford is also the founder and publisher of Allworth Press, residing in vibrant New York City.
Today, our focus turns to Crawford's latest fictional masterpiece, "On Wine-Dark Seas," set against the backdrop of the epic cycle, including the iconic poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey. Uncover Crawford's unique interpretation of the post-Odysseus era in Ithaca, a central theme in this narrative.
In this interview, we delve into Tad Crawford's creative journey, exploring the genesis of ideas and themes that form the heart of "On Wine-Dark Seas." Learn how Crawford skilfully integrates mythology into his work, immersing readers in a captivating tapestry of ancient Greece, gods, and human drama.
The conversation extends to the rich tapestries of the Iliad, the Odyssey, and the broader epic cycle. Discover how Crawford seamlessly weaves these timeless themes into a modern narrative, making "On Wine-Dark Seas" accessible even to those unfamiliar with classic literature. For aficionados of the classics, the novel offers a poetic rhythm that resonates with the essence of these timeless tales.
Join us as we navigate the creative mind of Tad Crawford, providing insights into his literary approach, the allure of mythology, and the seamless fusion of classical and modern storytelling in "On Wine-Dark Seas."
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Step back in time once again to the second year of the Peloponnesian War and immerse yourself in the heart of ancient Athens, a city grappling with a devastating plague. But in this intriguing narrative, our journey takes a unique twist, leading us northward to the Chalcidice, where Athens has dispatched additional forces to besiege Potidaea. Along this expedition, we'll uncover the intricate tapestry of diplomacy in Thrace and Macedon.
During this period, diplomatic endeavours were abundant, and it's worth noting that Sparta was actively engaged in these manoeuvres as well. Their strategic approach was two-fold: disrupting the situation in the north and forging alliances with external powers. Towards the end of summer, Sparta initiated a diplomatic mission targeting Thrace and the Persian Empire.
As we return to Athens, our focus shifts towards the city itself and its magnetic leader, Pericles. Amidst the devastating plague, Pericles found himself in a precarious political position, navigating the intricate landscape of Athenian politics. We'll explore Pericles' strategies in addressing the mounting discontent towards his policies, especially as Athens faced adversity on multiple fronts.
As the second year of the war's campaign season drew to a close, both Sparta and Athens were engaged in activities across Greece. Athens, now under the influence of the war party, responded to Peloponnesian threats with a more assertive stance. These actions marked a departure from the moderate policies that had guided the initial two years of the conflict under Pericles' leadership.
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In the second year of the Peloponnesian War, the stage was set for a continuation of the struggle between Sparta and Athens. Archidamus, the Spartan commander, spearheaded an invasion of Attica with renewed fervour, while Athens harnessed its maritime might to direct a potent fleet towards a more expansive target on the Peloponnesian shores. Yet, amidst the echoes of warfare, an unforeseen and insidious adversary emerged – the plague.
Originating from the Mediterranean's depths, the plague infiltrated Athens, exploiting its cosmopolitan trade networks. The city's bustling trade connections became both a source of prosperity and a conduit for disaster. However, the plague's devastation was exacerbated by the city's burgeoning population, driven to unprecedented numbers by the demands of the war. This surging populace led to congested streets and squalid living conditions, creating an ideal breeding ground.
The toll was profound and unrelenting. Families were shattered, lives extinguished, and a pall of despair enveloped the Athenian skyline. In an era accustomed to tales of valour and intellectual brilliance, this unseen assailant showcased the fragility of human existence. It was a stern reminder of the limits of human resilience against the inexorable forces of nature.
Within this cauldron of conflict and contagion, the second year of the war transcended its militaristic boundaries. It was a juncture where the will of cities clashed with nature's indiscriminate wrath. The plague, an unexpected interloper, reshaped Athens' narrative. As the war's tempest raged on, Athens wrestled not just with rival armies, but also with an unrelenting force that rose above the clashing of swords – an enduring testament to the intricate interplay between human agency and the capriciousness of fate.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Questions at Marathon found over on Patreon.
We now turn to the battle of Marathon which would be the final battle of the first Persian invasion. The battle of Marathon is one of the more famous of the battles during ancient Greek times. However, there are many questions that still are asked today with what took place there. In this episode we will be familiarising ourselves with how the battle developed, though through the context of areas that still remain unclear. Each question that I highlight in this episode will become the focus of its own bonus episode as we continue forward. This will give us a good opportunity to look in depth at each and see if we can understand what was happening.
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In this fascinating interview, I have the privilege of sitting down with Prof. Yvonne Korshak, a distinguished historian and accomplished writer, to delve into the captivating world of her latest masterpiece, “Pericles and Aspasia.” This remarkable work of Historical fiction shines a brilliant light on the period preceding the Peloponnesian War in Athens. Instead of merely employing historical events as a distant backdrop, Prof. Korshak skillfully weaves them into the very fabric of her narrative.
Through “Pericles and Aspasia,” Yvonne Korshak paints a vivid tapestry of unfolding historical events, interwoven with the intricacies of personal and intimate interactions. It’s a perspective that transcends traditional history books, offering readers a glimpse into the emotional depth and human experience of that era. By meticulously piecing together clues from historical records, Prof. Korshak masterfully constructs a narrative that feels authentic and relatable.
Our conversation spans a wide spectrum of topics, ranging from the creative process behind crafting this book, to the intriguing interplay between history and fiction. We explore myriad historical elements and timeless themes, enriching our understanding of both the past and the power of storytelling.
For those seeking an immersive journey into the heart of ancient Athens, “Pericles and Aspasia” stands as an eloquent testament to Prof. Yvonne Korshak’s dedication to historical accuracy and her unparalleled storytelling prowess.
Prof. Yvonne Korshak's Website
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The end of the first campaigning season of the Peloponnesian war had now drawn to a close. Sparta had invaded Attica with their offensive strategy, while Athens resisted with the defensive policy employed by Pericles. Athens had also launched naval operations which would harass the Peloponnese and secure Athens defensive position even further. However, no resolution to the war would be reached as the year came to a close and the conflict would drag on.
In Athens it was tradition during times of war that funeral processions were held to honour the fallen. This would allow the citizens to grieve for their loss as a collective, while it would also be a chance to install pride and honour into the Athenians. This tradition would prove to be very important, as it would help maintain morale during times of continued war.
To mark the end of the funeral procession an important Athenian figure would deliver a speech to the people. This time around it would be Pericles, and Thucydides would record the entire speech that he would give. In Thucydides account Pericles funeral oration would also mark the end point of the first year before continuing events into the second year of the war.
Pericles funeral oration would prove to be a speech that would inspire and shape political speeches all the way to our times, with It proving to be an example in oratory, literary and rhetoric skill. It was designed to install pride and honour to the Athenian people, celebrating the achievements of their city. It would show to those left behind that the fallen had not died in vain but had sacrificed themselves for a greater good. While in the end it would convince the Athenians that continuing the struggle was worth the continued hardships.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Persia Moves West found over on Patreon.Coming out of the Ionian revolt, Persia would look to continue pushing campaigns north and west from Anatolia. This would see Persian forces march into Thrace and Macedon, while also seeing them campaign through the Aegean all the way to the Greek mainland. For the Greeks they had seen these campaigns of 492 BC and 490 BC as attempts at subjugating all Greek lands. In this bonus episode we take a look at these campaigns and see if this was the Persian objective, or were there more limited aims in mind for now. If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, HereI
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The first year of the Peloponnesian war is now upon us. The first phase of this nearly 30-year struggle would be known as the Archidamian War, named after the Spartan king Archidamus, who had tried to prevent war developing in the first place. Archidamus being the only available Spartan king, the other not yet of age, would find himself leading the Peloponnesian forces as they invaded Attica in 431 BC.
Sparta would launch a campaign where the main focus was on ravaging the Athenian country side to try and force the Athenians from out behind their walls. This then, as the Spartan calculated, would see a large battle between two hoplite armies develop, where Sparta excelled. However, Athens had been working on its defences and security for some 50 years. This would see that their long walls would neutralise an invading land force, while the strength of their navy and empire would see that resources would still flow in during a siege.
Activities on land would not be the only actions undertaken during this first year. Athens would launch naval operations directed at the coast of the Peloponnese and surrounding areas. They would conduct raids, recruit new allies and secure their defences further with this developing war now in effect. Though, for the time being, Athens was looking to operate in a defensive manner while Sparta was on the offensive.
During this first year, we would also find that opinion but in both Sparta and Athens would waver when it came to the respective leaders of both cities. Archadamius, known for his opposition to war having been declared would delay and drag his feet on a number of occasions during the campaign, perhaps looking for an opportunity for negotiations. While Pericles would not allow his forces from out behind the walls of Athens while the Peloponnesians were on Attic soil, this seeing discontent within the hoplite class grow. However, the conflict would not be resolved by the end of the campaigning season and the Peloponnesian war would continue.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, The Battle of Lade found over on Patreon.
We have now reached the climax of the Ionian revolt where one last decisive battle would take place.
The Greeks would prepare to defend their rebellion by putting all their effort in bringing together a combined navy. However, the coalition force would not remain united once battle was joined.
We would then see the fall of Miletus, where the revolt had first developed. This would mark a point where the Ionian revolt had been defeated, though, Persian campaigns west would continue. We will be next turning to these in our bonus episodes, where we will first look at Persian motivations in these actions towards the Greek mainland.
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We have now reached the outbreak of the Peloponnesian war, where we saw the hostilities between Thebes and Plataea marking a point where the war would begin. Both of these city states were allied to Sparta, in Thebes case and Athens on the Plataean side. Even though preparations for war were underway already, this action would see that both Sparta and Athens would be ready for conflict since this was a blatant breach of the 30 years peace.
However, before moving forward with developments, we are going to take a step back to see if we can get a better understanding of why this war would come to develop. We will first look at what Thucydides our main source says about the causes and his opinions. Remember, here it was his aim in presenting his work to make sure that all those that read it would have an understanding of the events and motivations behind this greatest of Greek conflicts.
We will also explore the notion of the remote causes of the war and more immediate cause. This will see us looking back to even before the Persian War at the interactions between Athens and Sparta, while then following their interactions from the evolving developments of the Persian invasion and their victory in that war. Then we will turn to the years just before the breakout of the Peloponnesian War to see how both Athens and Sparta would come to be involved in this situation that had begun as a regional dispute out of their areas of influence.
Trying to shed light on the causes for war developing in this conflict is not easy task. If we are expecting to find a single cause for the war, we will walk away disappointed. Although, Thucydides would provide what appears on the surface a straight forward answer, when you stop and think about it, there are so many elements tied up in his answer and it becomes apparent why he devoted his entire work to the subject of the Peloponnesian War.
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The war party within Sparta now had the majority in favour of their policy towards Athens. A clear vote had seen that the policies of the peace that had influenced much of Spartan policy since the end of the Persian invasions had now fallen out of favour. This would see that Sparta now saw that Athens had breached the 30 years peace, created nearly 15 years ago. However, for war to be the next step in developments a congress of the Peloponnesian league would need to be held for all its members to vote on the matter.
Sparta would host the congress of the Peloponnesian League to put the matter to all members. It would be important to have everyone on board for a coming struggle with Athens and its empire. Thucydides would highlight that many would speak in favour of war with a particular focus on the speeches delivered by Corinth, where they would convince all that Athens could be defeated.
The Congress would decide that war would be the best path forward, as Athens needed to be stopped. However, conflict would not develop just yet, with Sparta sending a number of embassies to deliver ultimatums to Athens. These were supposedly an attempt to avoid war, but the conditions were demands that Athens could not accept and no arbitration was attempted. Finally, with Athens rejection, diplomatic connections would officially break down.
Conflict between the two would still not develop, though up in Boeotia an action by Thebes, Sparta’s ally, would see the first action leading to the outbreak of the Peloponnesian War. They would target the small polis of Plataea, an ally of Athens, though with the action not going as Thebes planned, more conflict was sure to follow. What took place in Boeotia would be a clear breakdown of the 30 years peace, with Athens and Sparta now on a war footing.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Persian Counter Attack found over on Patreon.
After having looked at the reasons for the Ionian revolt breaking out, we now turn to the revolt itself. In the main series we had focused on the revolt in general with a large focus on the Greeks operations. This time around we take a closer look at the Persian response and the campaigns that they would launch against Cyprus, the Hellespont, Caria and Ionia. This will take us up to the final years of the revolt and the decisive naval battle of Lade which will be the focus of our next bonus episode along with the end of the revolt.
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With Potidaea now under siege from Athens, Corinth, although unofficial involved, was looking to help save the city and their connection to it before it would fall. To do this, they would work with the surrounding cities on the Chalcidids to mount raids on the Athenians to help relive pressure on the city. However, their primary goal was to try and get Sparta to enter the conflict along with the other Peloponnesian cities. Corinth would convince their current allies to travel to Sparta to put their cases forward, while they would also travel to lead the argument for war.
Sparta would be forced to send out an invitation to members of the Peloponnesian league, inviting those who had been harmed by Athens. An assembly would be held where a number of cities would put their grievance to the Spartans. Corinth would have all their cities speak first to help set the mood before they would then stand and speak providing somewhat of the main event.
Athens had also sent representatives after learning of what was going to take place in Sparta, although they had not been invited. After Corinth had presented their case Athens would ask the Spartans if they could address the assembly. However, Athens was not looking to address the specific charges laid against them, but rather urge Sparta to think long and hard about the decision they would come to. They would highlight the gravity of what war would mean, especially with a city state such as themselves.
To round out the assembly, the Spartans would dismiss all the various representatives so they could discuss the matter between themselves. This would then see speech’s given by King Archidamus, representing the peace part and an ephor from the war party. After they had spoken the Spartans would vote on if they thought Athens had breached the 30 years peace where it quickly became clear Sparta was in the mood for war, a departure from the policies of the peace party that had dominated Spartan politics for most of the past 50 years.
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Athens support of Corcyra had seen hostilities once again develop with Corinth who had been engaged in a dispute with the island polis. Athens would send ships to support Corcyra, as the Corinthian set sail to impose their will. Out of this affair would see the battle of Sybota take place and with it the first engagement seeing Athenian and Corinthian ships openly fight one another. This would see tension raised further and questions around the official statue between the two.
Once the Athenians had learnt of what had taken place around Corcyra, they saw that war with Corinth was likely. They would now take measures to prepare for this coming conflict, though they would also attempt to not take any action that would breach the 30 years’ peace. Early measures included preparing financially with decrees made on how funds were to be spent, this seeing Athens scale back its building projects for the time being. However other measures would be taken that targeted other regions.
One would be known as the Potidaean affair, where Athens looked to secure their influence over the port city of Potidaea on the Chalcidice in Thrace. Potidaea was originally a Corinthian colony and still had ties to their mother city, Athens seeing Potidaea at risk of going into revolt due to Corinthian incitement. Athens would make demands on the city to take down its walls and expel any Corinthians within. However, Potidaea would resist and obtain Corinthian support along with other allies. This would see Athens having to commit to an ever-growing situation developing around Potidaea where they would end up being forced into laying siege to the city.
The second measure taken by Athens during this period that would also be seen to have a major impact on a future war with Sparta developing, would be that of the Megarian Decree. This would see Athens impose economic sanctions on the polis that sat at the exit of the Corinthian isthmus, leading into Attica. Megara was a member of the Peloponnesian league, with this economic strangle hold having flow on effects to their other trading partners within the league. These actions by Athens plus other would see Corinth put forward a case to Sparta and the other Peloponnesian that action was needed against Athens, less they sit by and watch Athens dominate all of Greece.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Behind the Ionian Revolt found over on Patreon.
For this episode we turn to the Ionian Revolt and look to the causes behind the revolt breaking out.
Our main source, Herodotus points to individual figures driving the revolt. But for them to do this there must have been more at play. We look to the Greeks experience in Ionia under Lydian and then Persian rule to try and understand what factors would see the populations dissatisfied and in a position where rebelling was a viable option. However it would also seem the Greeks themselves would also play their own part in this, with tyrants leading their cities.
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Athens had now taken the decision to send aide to Corcyra after having swayed from one side of the argument to the other. However, the assistance would be limited, with it being defensive in nature. Athens would send a small force of 10 triremes to Corcyra to lend their support with the commanders being instructed they were to only engage the Corinthians if Corcyrean territory was directly threatened.
This decision taken by Athens did not deter the Corinthians however, they would still set in motion the fleet that had been assembled. This would end up seeing the Corcyrean and Corinthian fleets meeting in a naval engagement known as the battle of Sybota in the waters between Corcyra and the mainland. Athens with its 10 triremes would also line up within the Corcyrean battle line where they would face the Corinthian contingent.
The battle would be joined as the sun rose in an old-fashioned melee at sea, perhaps a little primitive to the tactical manoeuvres Athens had perfected. To begin with Athens would not engage in combat, but would charge at the Corinthian line whenever they saw the Corcyreans were in trouble. They would peel off at the last minute, where their aim was to buy their allies time to recover. However, as the battle wore on Corcyra was now in real trouble of breaking. This would see Athens now charge in more recklessly to where they would be in open combat with Corinthian ships.
Athens intervention would see that the Corcyrean fleet remained intact and both sides were able to withdraw to their camps as night came on. The next day both fleets would be back in the water but battle would not develop. Corinth had a number of factors to consider now, one being their status with Athens. Both sides would claim victory in the engagement with Corinth departing back home, though, Corcyra would remain intact, still in control of their waters. The situation in Greece was now growing more volatile with each passing action, this time with a breach in the 30 years peace.
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The analogy of a powder keg in historical events it often used to describe a volatile situation that is waiting to explode into something larger. The most famous example of this is the events leading up to the breakout of World War 1. A seemingly remote region in the Balkans would see an act of violence take place that would end up embroiling all the empires within Europe in the most destructive war to that time.
A similar powder keg situation would develop in the ancient Greek world just before the breakout of the Peloponnesian War. This would be in a region north of Greece on the Albanian coast line far away from the interests of both Sparta and Athens. What would unfold here would be known as the affaire of Epidamnus, a colony both Corinth and Corcyra would lay claim to and enter into conflict over.
Both Corinth and Corcyra would engage in battle over the developments around Epidamnus, Corinth suffering a defeat at sea. This would not deter them and they would divert more resources towards bringing a renewed offensive against Corcyra. This would see Corcyra, not a part of any alliance, now look for assistance in this growing threat.
Corcyra would look towards Athens for this help and would send a delegation to try and secure this assistance. Corinth would also have an envoy in Athens having learnt of Corcyra’s intentions and both would now present their cases to the Athenians to decide upon. Athens would debate what was presented to them in two separate assemblies before arriving at the fateful decision to assist Corcyra. This decision along with the consequences and developments that would follow would see the situation become more volatile than ever.
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Athens had extinguished another fire in the Aegean when the island of Samos and Miletus, both Delian League members had gone to war with each other. Athens would assist Miletus seeing Samos revolt, though after a couple years Samos was back in the league. However, this had highlighted weaknesses in Athens control around its empire as other areas had also followed Samos’ example, including the important city of Byzantium.
With the major threats dealt with, Athens now turned to securing the edges of its empire to see their interests were better protected. This would see three major areas focused on, the first being that of Caria. Athens would streamline this region, by cutting out of the tribute list many Carian cities that lay inland, while incorporating the rest into the region of Ionia.
Other regions on the edges of the empire that Athens would focus on were around the Black Sea and Thracian lands. The key to the Black Sea and Athens bread basket in the Ukraine was the city of Byzantium. Athens would launch a campaign of goodwill and deterrence to attempt to secure influence in the city while deterring those hostile regions nearby. While in Thrace important colonies would be established to secure Athenian interest from the inland tribal groups within Thracian and Macedonian lands.
This point would then see Athens at its most secure in the Aegean than it had ever been. Another thing that becomes noticeable from all Athens efforts, was the fact that we can not really talk of them being at the head of a league. They had taken measures that would see that they would now fit the definition of an empire.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Contact n the East, found over on Patreon.
We are now moving on with our bonus episode out of the early development of Athens and Sparta. This will now see us focuing on the theme of the Greek and Persian War. We had covered this period over quite a number of episodes in the series previously, though from a narrative perspective. This time around I want to go back and put certain topics in the spot light, allowing us to explore them a little deeper.
For our first episode around the Greco-Persian War theme I want to look at where the Greeks and Persians first made contact. This will take us back some 50 years before the Ionian Revolt where the Anatolian Greeks would first encounter the Persian Empire. We will look at this period before then looking at the first reported contacts with the Persians by the Spartans and Athenians.
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Book: Odysseus Unbound: The Search for Homer's Ithaca
In the series we have look at some elements within Greek history that have connections to traditional tales and mythology. Some big examples of these were when we looked at the Trojan War, Mycenae and the Minoans. Well once again we are looking at historical connections to what can be found within the ancient writings of Homer, this time with a focus on the Odyssey. This episode will be focused around the idea of locating the island of Ithaca that Homer describes within the Odyssey. For a long time, controversy has surrounded the actual location of Homers Ithaca, with many since ancient times questioning whether the Island we know today as Ithaki was actually the Ithaca of the Odyssey.
In our modern time, one such man also questioned this idea. Robert Bittlestone with a Classics, Science and economics background, would return from the business world to his love of Classics to delve into the mystery around the home island of Odysseus. Robert would develop a working theory that would be eventually presented to an audience at Cambridge University. This is where Prof. James Diggle would become involved, seeing great merit in what Robert presented. Prof. Diggle would go on to contribute to Robert Bittlestone’s book, Odysseus Unbound. The search for Homer’s Ithaca. Unfortunately, Robert would pass away in 2015, however his legacy and work would continue on with the creation of the Odysseus Unbound foundation, with a number of professionals and academics making up its members, including Roberts son’s Simon and Mathew.
The Odysseus unbound Foundation is an educational charity dedicated to advancing knowledge of the ancient world. Specifically, we conduct and promote scientific and historical research to discover the actual locations of historical sites that have been described in ancient literature such as Homer’s Odyssey.
They are committed to publishing widely all their results so our understanding of the ancient world and the origins of our civilization today is enhanced to everyone’s benefit.
The Foundation was formed in 2017. It is built upon the inspiration of the late Robert Bittlestone whose ground-breaking ideas about the location of Ithaca, the homeland of Odysseus described by Homer in the Odyssey, are showing significant promise.
Prof. James Diggle, Trustee of the Odysseus Unbound foundation is Emeritus Professor of Greek and Latin at Cambridge University and a Life Fellow of Queens’ College.
His publications include The Cambridge Greek Lexicon (Editor-in-Chief, Cambridge, 2021), The Oxford Classical Text of Euripides (Oxford, 1981-94), Euripidea: Collected Essays (Oxford, 1994) and Theophrastus: Characters (Cambridge, 2004).
He was University Orator at Cambridge for eleven years and has published a selection of his speeches in Cambridge Orations (Cambridge, 1994). He is a Fellow of the British Academy and a Corresponding Member of the Academy of Athens.
He was awarded his CBE in the 2022 New Year Honours for services to classical scholarship.
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We continue our look at the development of Corinth in the series. Last episode we ended with the period of tyranny that had lasted two generations and ended with the assassination of the third. However, Corinth would continue to flourish, with cultural and economic advances taking place. Corinth would end up hosting one of the Pan Hellenic games, being one of the first mainland cities to mint their own coins, while large public building would begin to dot the Acropolis.
The mid-6th century would also see Corinth become part of a larger collection of city states, through the establishment of the Peloponnesian league. This league was headed by Sparta and it seems Corinth sought security from other city states growing in power that were close by. We would also find that Corinth would have a level of influence within the league that others did not, coming down to them possessing one of the largest navy’s within the league.
Once we reach the Greco-Persian War in Herodotus’ account we start to see Corinth portrayed in a negative light. This would be through the Corinthian commander supposedly putting up opposition to how the Athenians wanted to conduct the campaign. While also giving accounts of the Corinthian army and navy being unreliable in battle. However, as we look at, the times these histories were being written in would have an impact of how they were presented.
After the Persian Wars Corinth would continue to hold influence within the Peloponnesian league. They would be one of the main players of the First Peloponnesian War while also influencing Sparta’s decision on conducting campaigns across the Aegean. As we continue forward in the series, we will continue to see Corinth involved in inter-city state diplomacy, where they would be embroiled in the spark that would ignite the Peloponnesian War.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Ostracism found over on Patreon.
We now continue our look at the systems and institutions that would develop in early Athens and Sparta. For this episode we will now turn the the political mechanism of Ostracism that would develop in Athens after the period of tyranny that had existed there in the last half of the 6th century BC.
We will look at what Ostracism was and what its purpose was. We will look at why it would develop, by understanding the pervious phase of Athenian politics. Then we will look at examples of ostracism being used into the Classical period. Then, finally we will look at if the system was still being used for its intended application.
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The polis of Corinth has remained in the background of events as we have travelled through the narrative of the series so far. Now though, we have reached a point, the years leading to the break out of the Peloponnesian War, where Corinth starts to feature in the ancient sources on a more regular basis. This would be through diplomatic dealings, both within the Peloponnesian league and on larger Greek matters involving Athens.
For this reason, we are going to take a short break in the narrative to properly acquaint ourselves with this city state that would become more important in affaires going on within Greece. We will look back to the earliest times where human activity was taking place on the Corinthian isthmus. This will see us look at developments through the Palaeolithic and into the Bronze Age.
The Bronze Age collapse would see population levels drop on the Isthmus like with other areas within Greece. However, the region in and around Corinth would recover as the Archaic age drew closer. A series of kings would govern the city before an aristocratic revolution took place which would see a powerful clan known as the Bacchiadae take control. The Bacchiadae would dominate Corinthian politics for the next 100 years. Though, their dominance would come to an end with the rise of a new political development.
The figure of the tyrant would first develop on the Greek mainland at the city of Corinth. The first tyrant Cypselus, who overthrow the Bacchiadae, would install the first tyranny with the support of the people of Corinth. There would be mixed feelings of his rule, depending which social class was being asked. The tyranny would continue with his son Periander, who would be included as amongst the seven sages of Greece. However, the tyranny would come to an end in the third generation through the assassination of Periander’s nephew.
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Athens and Sparta had now entered into an agreement known as the 30 years’ peace, seeing the first Peloponnesian come to an end. This would see the creation of two spheres of influence within Greek lands that they would now turn their attention to. In Athens, Pericles would now also see a challenge to his influence within the Athenian political system. All accounts in the sources indicate that the rise of the conservative faction would be the toughest fight Pericles would have to endure to date.
Revolts within the Athenian Empire would continue through the 440’s, though we would not get any accounts of them. Our clue to these revolts would be in the form of the Athenian tribute list that would show a fluctuation of payments. However, as the 440’s came to a close we would once again hear of a major revolt in the historical sources. This revolt would begin as a war between two members of Athens Empire.
The island of Samos and Miletus on the Anatolian coast would engage in a war over disputed territory. Athens would find itself intervening in matters to bring the conflict under control, though they would take the side of Miletus. This would see Samos revolt against Athens and seek aide from their past enemies. Athens would face some setbacks during the conflict, though with more support they would eventually succeed in bringing the island back under control.
This Samian war would also test the agreements that Athens had made with both Sparta and Persia. Both had been approached by the Samians, with Persia giving indirect aide, while Sparta would stand by, supposedly sidelined by allies within the Peloponnesian league. For now, the terms made between Athens and Sparta would see conflict avoided.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, The Tribes of Athens found over on Patreon.
Having spent the last couple of bonus episodes with Sparta, we now turn to Athens to look at the development of their institutions.
We will first look at a major step forward in the development of democracy with the reforms of Cleisthenes. In this episode we will refresh ourselves with Athens of the late Archaic period and then Cleisthenes' background. We will then touch on some of the political mechanisms he put in place such as ostracism. Then we will turn to his political reorganisation that would see a new system of tribes introduced that would open up political opportunities and allow for a more democratic political system to develop.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here New bonus episodes come out in the first week of every month,
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So, it’s now mid-December and I am taking a break over the Christmas period and month of January. Though, before signing off for the holidays I wanted to leave you all with a different sort of episode to see out the year. I decided to contact my good friend Steve over at The Spartan History Podcast to see if he would be interested in coming on just to talk about Greek history. He has just entered into the Greek and Persian War period, so I thought it would provide lots for us to talk about. Plus, it gave me another reason to go back and chat about the Persian Wars, a period I always enjoy talking about. It had also been quite some time since we last did a collaboration so I thought it was about time to get on air and chat. I also felt we had reached a natural point to take a break in the series since we just wrapped up the First Peloponnesian War. But don’t worry we will be back to continue with the developments in the new year.
For those of you have not come across The Spartan History podcast, I would highly recommend you check out Steve’s show. He began around the same time I started this show and we have since then kept in touch and bounced ideas off one another. You can find the Spartan History podcast on the same platforms you listen to this show on.
So, for this episode, we decided not to worry about any sort of script or pre-planned direction for the chat, it just basically unfolded as if we were chatting together without any audience. We focus a great deal on the Greco-Persian Wars, jumping around the period a bit. While we also do touch on areas before and after the conflict. We did have a few connection issues through the talk with a dropout and some areas of buffering, though, I did try and smooth them out as best as I could but they are still there.
Anyway, a huge thank you to everyone for listening and supporting the show, I have greatly appreciated it. Although, Im taking the rest of December and January off, I just want to let all Patreon members know that I will still be releasing the next bonus episode in the first week of January.
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Athens and Sparta were now in a position to turn their attention to matters within their own spheres of influence, with the truce that existed between them. Sparta would look at eliminating the threats that they had faced on the Peloponnese, seeing Argos now at peace with Sparta, and Tegea brought back into the Peloponnesian league. While negotiations would appear to be taking place with other cities on the Corinthian isthmus.
With Sparta now in a more secure position domestically, they would no look further afield once again. This would see them become involved in the second Sacred War around Delphi, with indirect connections to Athens. With the truce still in place Athens would react to these developments once Sparta had left the region. This seeing a reversal in the outcome Sparta had won for the Delphines.
However, not all was going well for Athens in Boeotia. The oligarchs who had been exiled with Athens take over were returning in great numbers. It appears they may have been emboldened by Sparta’s action. They would begin regaining control of the Boeotian cities and would end up defeating Athens in a decisive battle when the Athenians came to attempt to hold onto the region. Athens would also have to deal with other league members attempting to revolt in the wake of their loss of territory in Boeotia.
By this stage the 5 years true had just expired and Sparta would immediately make moves against Athens that appear to have been planned. A Spartan army would march into Attica laying waste to the areas before Athens. However, an Athenian army would respond, seeing the Spartans advance no further. All was set for another show down on the battlefield, however talks would be held between to two sides. This would lay the foundation for what is known as the 30 years peace and would bring the First Peloponnesian War to an end.
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After the battle of Tanagra, Athens was able to focus on pursuing its aims throughout Boeotia, the Gulf of Corinth and the Peloponnese. This saw Athens power and influence grow even more at the expense of Sparta and its allies. However, the disaster that would take place in Egypt for Athens would see them now needing to change their policies to better deal with the crisis that was brewing in the Aegean.
One of the first measures taken was to put in place a truce with Sparta, so as to reduce the threat of attack within Greece itself. This would then allow Athens to focus its now reduced resources to defending its control in the Aegean, this being the source of their power. The defeat in Egypt had seen some of the Delian league members view Athens in a weakened state. While, there was the fear Persia would once again campaign into Aegean.
Athens would first focus on tightening its grip on the league. They would campaign to force the revolting cities back in as tribute paying members. While then taking measures to ensure it would prove more difficult for future rebellions to take place. These would come in the form of coercion, building relations and economic dependency.
The other crisis Athens faced in the Aegean was the renewed threat of Persian actions into the Aegean. To deal with this they would arrange an expedition led by Cimon to the Persian controlled island of Cyprus. Although, the island would remain under Persian control the actions that took place would see what appear to be some sort of peace being made between Athens and Persia. Athens had now dealt with the crisis but matters on the Greek mainland had not been resolved and the truce with Sparta was soon due to expire.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Solon, found over on Patreon.
We now turn to the important figure of Solon in Athens history. He would be credited with implementing the foundations of what would become democracy. The divide between nobles and non-nobles had seen political violence breakout. Solon would attempt to implement measures that would see birth not the only qualifying factor to have political say, while he would also reform Athens economically and morally. After making these changes Solon would leave Athens for 10 years, travelling the Mediterranean. This is where we will spend the last half of the episode, looking at two episodes within these travels, as he visited Egypt and Lydia.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here New bonus episodes come out in the first week of every month,
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Sparta had defeated Athens at the battle of Tanagra in 457 BC, though both armies had taken heavy losses. Both would look to make a temporary truce so that they could regroup without the fear of being attacked while in a vulnerable position. This would see the forces of both Athens and Sparta return to their cities bringing a close to this campaign. However, this would not be the end of hostilities and campaigning for the first Peloponnesian war.
Just 62 days after Tanagra, Athens would launch a fresh attack into Boeotian lands where Sparta had been active, with a possible agreement with Thebes. Sparta would remain within their home territory which would see Athens facing Theban and other Boeotian troops during this new campaign. Athens would win a major victory while also taking many cities, which would see them gain much control and influence within Boeotia.
This would not be the only campaign launched. A naval campaign would also be arranged which would seem to further Athenian trade connections. There was also an element of gaining some revenge for Tanagra, where Athens would ravage a Spartan port. However, it would appear the main objective would be to establish and secure Athenian trade connections to the west through the Corinthian gulf, dominated by many Peloponnesian league members.
These campaigns that would unfold and continue through the next couple of years would see Athen’s influence within the Greek mainland increases to new heights. Though, news of the disastrous Egyptian campaign would arrive, seeing Athens having to direct its attention to defending its interests within the Delian league as well as counter the threat of possible hostile Persian moves within the Aegean.
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Athens was engaging in developing new alliances on the Greek mainland in response to the hostility with Sparta. This would also see a number of campaigns launched by the Athenians to establish their security, these being fought by Sparta’s allies. However, as these events on the mainland were unfolding, a plea for help from a rebel king in Egypt would arrive requesting Athenian assistance in fighting the Persians.
In 465 BC Xerxes would be assassinated bringing his 21-year rule to an end. This would see his son Artaxerxes come to the throne, though, under suspicious circumstances. The coming to the throne of a new king was usually a period that would see regions attempt to breakaway from the empire. Artaxerxes accession would be no exception, seeing Egypt breakout in revolt, led by a Libyan king named Inaros. It would be he who would request the Athenians come and assist them in their bid for freedom.
Athens would sail for Egypt and link up with the rebels in the Nile delta, while a Persian army was dispatched to put the revolt down. An initial battle would see the rebel forces rout the Persians, who would seek refuge at Memphis. A siege would now develop as the Athenians and Egyptians attempted to destroy the rest of the Persian forces. This would not be the end of the campaign, with Persia assembling a new army after Persian gold would not entice the Spartans in attacking the Athenians homeland.
The appearance of this new Persian force in Egypt would now start to see Athens and the rebels fortune change. The siege of Memphis would be broken, the Persians defeating the besieges, this seeing Athens fallback into the Nile delta where they themselves would now be besieged. The majority of the Egyptian rebels would surrender to the Persians, while the Athenian force would be all but destroyed. This seeing the largest disaster suffered by Athens in generations.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Lycurgus, Spartan Lawgiver, found over on Patreon.
Plutarch would say of Lycurgus;
"Concerning Lycurgus the lawgiver, in general, nothing can be said which is not disputed, since indeed there are different accounts of his birth, his travels, his death, and above all, of his work as lawmaker and statesman"
He would then follow up with;
"...although the history of these times is such a maze, I shall try, in presenting my narrative, to follow those authors who are least contradicted, or who have the most notable witnesses for what they have written about the man."
It is with Plutarch that we lean very heavily on to draw out the reported life of Lycurgus and how he would come to introduce many of the laws and institutions within Sparta that made them so famous in the pages of history. Though, we also look to the notion that his historicity may not be as what it seems, with there being perhaps a closer connection to Delphi and the god Apollo.
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With the insult received at the hands of the Spartans during the helot revolt, the Athenians began setting a course to deal with the new geopolitical realities. They would first sever their connection to Sparta by dissolving their membership in the Hellenic league. This would then be followed by securing alliances with enemies of Sparta and cities that would secure Athen’s position from any attack coming from the Peloponnese.
Athens would also enact building projects that would assist in protecting Attica and Athens itself. This would be seen in the construction of a defensive wall extending from the city of Magara on the Corinthian isthmus. Further defensive walls would also be built in Attica, turning Athens into an island on the mainland. These would be known as Athens long walls and would connect the city to its ports.
Enviably, with these shits in alliances and activities, regional conflicts would begin developing. Athens would be engaged with one of Sparta’s biggest allies, Corinth, where battles would break out on the Peloponnese, off the coast and on the isthmus itself. This period would see Athens stretched thin, as she would not only be engaged in Greece, but overseas campaigns would also continue during this period.
Finally, After Athens manoeuvrings on the mainland, Sparta would not stand by idle and would react. This would see a Spartan led campaign develop north of Attica in Boeotia, its motivations and objectives would be somewhat unclear in the sources. Though, this Spartan action would see Athens respond and march out to meet the Spartan force. This would see these past Hellenic league members face one another at the battle of Tanagra.
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Events during the 460’s would see the political sands in Athens begin to shift, with opposition to Cimon’s influence increasing in the sources. This would first come through charges of corruption at the conclusion of the Thasos campaign. While a more successful attempt would take place with Sparta’s rejection of Athenian assistance during the helot revolt, assistance Cimon had supported sending.
This would see the emergence on the pages of Athenian history, two new influential political figures. Ephialtes and Pericles would mount a similar opposition to Cimon’s policies as Themistocles some ten years earlier. Ephialtes would appear to head this opposition while Pericles, the son of Xanthippus would be his junior.
They would be successful in shifting public support away from Cimon, while also managing to have him ostracized. This would see Cimon removed from Athenian politics for the next 10 years, allowing the policies of Ephialtes, Pericles and their supporters to now dominate the political institutions within Athens.
The changes that would develop in Athens would open the way for a more direct form of democracy to develop. This would see the aristocratic institution of the Areopagus attacked and its powers severally reduced in favour of the council of 500 and the assembly. This would give more say over affairs in Athens to a broader range of classes. However not all would be pleased with these developments as Ephialtes would become a victim of political violence.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, The Mythic Origins of Athens, found over on Patreon.
We now turn to focus on the origins and development of Athens through what is found in Myth. This will see us encountering a time when the mortal world and the divine interacted. Here two of the Olympian gods would compete to become the Patreon god of what would become Athens. We will then look at how the developments of Athens would be explained once the city had been established, which would focus on the stories revolving around the hero Theseus.
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In 464 BC, Poseidon the earth shaker would rock the Peloponnese, seeing Sparta take the full force of the earthquake. A number of the ancient sources would record the terrible event and the scale of destruction and suffering experienced by the Spartans. Modern day studies would show that the what Sparta experienced was likely on the same scale as the earth quake that struck Haiti in 2021 of our time.
The impact to Sparta was great enough that their Helot class would view their masters as vulnerable. Areas would arrange themselves in a rebellion and revolt would breakout through the region of Messenia. The revolt would be organised on a scale that would see Sparta look to its allies in the Peloponnesian and Hellenic league for assistance.
A number of city states would answer their call, including that of Athens, the polis they had only a year earlier agreed to attack in a secret agreement with Thasos. Though, the shifting sands of Spartan politics would see them advise the Athenians once arriving that their assistance was no longer required. Only Athens was extended this disrespect of all who came to assist, with Sparta’s suspicions bubbling to the surface once again.
This would mark a point in Spartan – Athenian relations where open hostility would begin to be displayed. New alliances would be formed to match this reality, while back in Athens this event would see the political landscape change. New political figures were now emerging and an effective opposition along with recent events was now beginning to see Cimon’s popularity decrease.
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After the Delian Leagues victory over the Persian forces at the Eurymedon River, campaigning would continue with it appearing other areas closer to the Greek mainland being the focus. Though, the Island of Thasos, an original Delian league member would now also revolt from the league, seeing Athens and the leagues attention being refocused to deal with this developing threat.
We are told that the revolt would come about due to economic reasons, with Athenian influence now also extending into areas Thasos had control in. This would see the full force of Athens navy and by extension the Delian league directed at the island in the Northern Aegean. Thasos would be laid siege to and would now attempt to seek assistance from outside of the Delian league.
Here we can perhaps see the path to conflict between Athens and Sparta, since Sparta would be the city Thasos would turn to. Sparta, with it seeming the war party had now gained more influence within Spartan politics, in turn would secretly agree to attack Athenian territory to try and relive the siege directed at the island. This being the first overtly hostile action we hear of being contemplated.
Though, Poseidon, the earth shaker would see to it that the attack would not take place. A great and terrible earthquake would rock the Peloponnese seeing many cities including Sparta devastated. This would create further issues for Sparta to deal with, while the path to conflict between Athens and Sparta would be further laid as the consequences from this event unfolded.
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With the victory over the Persian invasions in 479 BC, the Greeks had continued operations in the Aegean against Persian controlled areas. Though, objectives and priorities of many of the city states had shifted with this common threat ejected from Greek lands. This would see yet another league formed, that of the Delian league, who would continue campaigning throughout the Aegean.
While these campaigns continued on for the next 10 years, political developments within the Greek mainland would evolve with the new reality. The Persian threat had united the many Greek city states, putting their suspicions and interests in the background. Now though, what had united them had been defeated and these interests and suspicions would once again come to the forefront.
Both Athens and Sparta would now attempt to establish a policy that would suit their cities in the post war period. Though, both polies would have a number of paths open to them with different factions within their political systems competing for their preferred path. As events unfolded over the next decade both city states would eventually settle on a policy.
This period would see the hero of Salamis, Themistocles ostracised, freeing the way for his opponents in Athens. While Sparta would be contending with regions on the Peloponnese growing in influence with the rise of democratic factions within them. This forcing them to bring their focus back closer back to their home region. Though, these developments would be seen to be connected as the various factions manoeuvred for political advantage.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Return of the Heracleidae found over on Patreon.
The return of the Heracleidae would be a story the Dorian Spartans told themselves pointing to their legitimate rule over the lands they occupied. It would form the basis of their founding myth, connecting their existence back to the hero Heracles. The children of Heracles would be exiled from the Peloponnese after the heroes death. Though, the following generations would attempt to regain control of lands they saw as being rightfully theirs, as it had been Zeus' intention that Heracles was to have become a great king there, before being tricked by his wife Hera.
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Dr Owen Rees is Associate Lecturer in Ancient History at Manchester Metropolitan University, where he specialises in the transition of soldiers from civilian life to the battlefield and back again. His books on the topic of ancient Greek warfare include Great Battles of the Classical Greek World (Pen & Sword, 2016); Great Naval Battles of the Ancient Greek World (Pen & Sword, 2018); and Military Departures, Homecomings, and Death in Classical Athens: Hoplite Transitions (Bloomsbury Academic, 2022).
He is also the founder and lead editor of the website BadAncient.com, which brings together a growing network of specialists to fact-check common claims made about the ancient world and expose the prevalent pseudohistory in the modern day.
In this episode I sit down with Dr Owen Rees to focus on his newest scholarly work, Military Departures, Homecomings and death in Classical Athens. Although we are looking at the Athenian experience of war in the Classical Age, the unfolding events of particular battles will not be our focus here. Rather we will be looking at the often overlooked elements surrounding the campaigns that would embarked on. We will be more concerned with the experiences around preparing to leave for war in what would form departure scenes, this looking different to the various parts of society. This will also see us turning to the aftermath of a war or campaign in how the homecoming was also experienced by these elements of society. With wars also comes death and Dr Rees will also take us through how the Athenian War dead were treated where they would receive their own form of homecoming. We also look to how the individual hoplites experience of war may affect them through trauma or more commonly known to us today as PTSD. We view this topic through the competing theories that ask whether ancient soldiers also suffered this disorder as spoilers to today. Though, to begin our talk today I spend a little time getting to know Dr Rees, his background and motivations before we then engage in a little general historical conversation. After this we then draw our focus to the main subject for our talk and spend well over an hour looking at the research behind Military Departures, Homecomings and death in Classical Athens.
Links for Dr Owen Rees:
Owen Rees Website
Bad Ancient
Books:
Great Naval Battles of the Ancient Greek World
Great Battles of the Classical Greek World
Military Departures, Homecomings and Death in Classical Athens
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Bernie Taylor is an independent naturalist, thought leader and author whose research explores the mythological connections and biological knowledge among prehistoric, indigenous and ancient peoples. His works in these areas include Biological Time (2004) and Before Orion: Finding the Face of the Hero (2017). Before Orion is premised on Joseph’s Campbell’s hero's journey monomyth that is at the core of stories worldwide among indigenous peoples, the ancients, and our modern society. Before Orion explores a deeper root for this monomyth by looking at how hunter-gatherers viewed themselves within the natural and spiritual worlds through Palaeolithic cave art from 40,000 years ago. Taylor proposes that select cave paintings are fundamental pieces in the human journey to self-realization, the foundation of written language, and a record of biological knowledge that irrevocably impacted some of the artistic styles, religious practices, and stories that are still with us. Taylor addresses a profound archaeological elephant in the room by opening up an uncharted place in our history, which points to the cultural ancestors of mankind in western North Africa. Before Orion will change the idea of who you think you are.
For this episode we are moving away a little from the narrative approach to history that we usually follow. For this episode we will be turning to the realm of myth that we have only really covered in passing throughout the series. Though we will not be running through the usual stories of Greek Mythology, we will be instead looking to the deeper past where Greek civilisation has yet to appear. This will see us looking back some 10’s of thousands of years before the rise of Greek culture where stories that we find familiar in Greek mythology were also present. Bernie Taylor will take us back these tens of thousands of years to a cave site on the Iberian Peninsula, or modern-day Spain. In our talk, Bernie took me on a fascinating journey of his research and the ideas he has developed. I found this then turned into a great discussion and I hope you all enjoy this episode as much as I did engaging with Bernie. A lot of what we talk about is very visual and so I have provided a number of pictures on the episode page over at the Casting Through Ancient Greece website, while I have also provided Bernie Taylors links where you will be able to find even more resources. Any I hope you enjoy the next couple of hours.
Bernie Taylor Twitter @BernieTaylorOr
Before Orion Twitter @BeforeOrion
Before Orion website
Before Orion Kindle
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, The Iliad found over on Patreon.
For part three of our look at Homer we now turn the the second great work attributed to him, The Odyssey. Unlike the Iliad this would be a tale of adventure and homecoming, seeing the hero Odysseus attempt to make his way back home to his kingdom of Ithaca, his wife Penelope and his son Telemachus. In his journey he would travel to many strange lands and creatures that would provide his quest home with many dangerous encounters. In this episode we explore the narrative of the poem while also talking about a couple of the themes present throughout.
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The Delian League had been campaigning in and around the Aegean for the best part of ten years. Thucydides had given us the picture of Athenian growth in power during this period with the league focusing less and less on the Persian threat and looking to police Greeks in the region before then having to turn to their own members looking to leave the league.
During this period the Persian Empire was also continuing with their policies within their lands, though mostly out of the view of the Greeks. For this reason, we have no narrative accounts of what was taking place, just small pieces of evidence suggesting likely activities. These would range from further campaigning on their boarders, expanding their lands; put down possible revolts and engaging in great construction projects at their capitols.
Although, it had appeared that the Persian threat in the Aegean had died down as the 470’s progressed, just over ten years after the battles of Mycale and Plataea, there would be a renewed effort. The Persian had begun assembling naval and land forces in southern Anatolia to prepare for what appeared to be another campaign directed at the Greeks.
Cimon would receive word of the Persian build up and direct the leagues attention towards southern Anatolia as the campaigning season came on. A naval battle would take place at the opening of the Eurymedon River, then the Greeks would fight a land battle to follow up their victory at sea. There is also the possibility that a second naval engagement followed these two battles against a reinforcing force. The battle of the Eurymedon would effectively end any future Persian attempts at launching an offensive directed at Greek lands.
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The Delian league had now been established with the majority of its members coming from regions throughout the Aegean. In its inception they had all turned to a Greek city state on the mainland, that of Athens who headed the league. In 477 BC the league would now find itself in a position to begin campaigning for the first time, they would set out under the leadership of a relative new comer to the scene of Athenian politics, Cimon.
Thucydides would give us a picture of how the league would evolve over its first decade in operation, as well as highlighting how Athens’s power would grow. The league would first direct itself against Persian controlled regions on the Thracian coast, aligned with the objectives it had been created under.
Though, it wouldn’t be only the Persians that the Delian league would focus its attentions against. Other Greeks would find themselves becoming the target of the league’s activities in the Aegean. These actions would be justified for a number of reasons, from eliminating piracy in the Aegean, to protecting the common strategic security through cohesion.
As the years passed new challenges within the league would arise. With very little Persian activity in the Aegean league members would have been starting to wonder if the finical costs of supporting the league were in their interests anymore. One member Naxos would act on this and attempt to leave, but this risked seeing the league fall apart. Athens would see that they would remain a member through force. This was an ominous sign of the direction the league was heading in, though the Persian threat had not disappeared just yet.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, The Iliad found over on Patreon.
In our 3 part look at Homer we now turn to the first work of epic poetry credited to him, the Iliad. In this episode we explore what the Iliad is and delve a little deeper into the story that is being presented. We then focus on some of the major themes within the work that Homer would weave into the narrative. Then we look at a couple of questions around the historicity of the Trojan war and then Homers relationship to the Iliad.
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I wanted to do an episode that focused on Rome in the same sort of format I had done with my past Greek Periphery episodes. Though, my knowledge on Roman history is quite rusty at best, so I wanted to enlist some help to present this episode. For this I turned to Dr Fiona Radford and Dr Peta Greenfield from the Partial Historians podcast. Unfortunately, the timing didn’t line up with the series of Periphery episodes I had done, but never the less I still wanted to present this look at Rome. So, I decided to present this episode as part of the interview series where we will take a quick break from our narrative.
Like I said this episode is done with a similar idea as the past Greek Periphery episodes where we look back to some of the earliest times in the region we are focusing on. We then move forward exploring the tales and myths surrounding the foundations before then turning to what more tangible lines of evidence tells us. This will then see discussion move into areas where we then have literary accounts that help provide an idea of what was developing. I thought it would be interesting to focus on the city of Rome, rather than the larger regions we had done before, since Rome is such a well-known city of the ancient world. Though, I also wanted to compare its developments to what was taking place in Greece around the same periods.
In this episode with Dr Greenfield and Dr Radford from the Partial Historians we follow this same formula where we then look at parallels and compare to what was taking place in Greece to help provide some context to the developments in Rome. Instead of looking at Rome over a series of episodes like with the previous periphery episodes we followed the foundations all the way through to the beginning of the republic in this talk stretching for just over an hour and a half. This also coincides with roughly the same period we brought all our other looks at the wider Greek world up to.
Dr Fiona Radford is an expert on Rome on film and wrote her thesis on Kubrick’s Spartacus. Her research interest in film makes her an exponent of not only Ancient History, but also Reception Studies. Dr Radford’s work has taken her across the globe and into rarely viewed archives.
Dr Peta Greenfield is an expert on the Vestal Virgins, a collective of six priestesses whose aedes (temple) was located at the edge of the Roman forum. Her research interests include: the intersection between religion and politics in Rome, the Late Republic (c. 150 BC – 31 BC) and Augustan Period (c. 31 BC – AD 14), and the role of women.
Together both Dr Greenfield and Dr Radford produce and present the Partial historians podcast were they discuss, spar, and laugh their way through different aspects of the Roman world.
They would love to have you along for the ride! And you can find them where ever you get your podcasts.
Partial Historians website
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Please sit back and enjoy this extended podcast recommendation, an Introduction to the History of Egypt Podcast where Dominic will share a short tale with you. If you haven't yet come across the History of Egypt Podcast you can find Dominic's show at the below links:
The History of Egypt Podcast website
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Birth of the Delian League:
Leagues in Greece were not a new concept, with many being in existence in one form or another. So, far the major leagues that we have followed have been the Peloponnesian league and the Hellenic league, with both of these still in operation by 477BC. These were primarily defensive in nature and were formed around city states that had shared interests or a common foe. Though, what would happen once interests were conflicted or a threat had been extinguished?
In 478/477 Athens would find herself in this position now that Persian had been ejected from Greek lands and campaigning had moved into the eastern Aegean. For Sparta and the Peloponnesians, campaigning could begin to wind down with the threat now far away from their lands. Though Athens and the new eastern Greek members of the league saw the threat still present to their interests in Anatolia. This time interests were far more divided than they were in the disagreements before Salamis and Plataea.
We are told the various Ionian and other eastern Greeks would unite together in the face of the harsh treatment by Pausanias and the Spartan commanders. They would approach Athens with support to take control of the leadership, eventually leaving Sparta no alternative with all of the other Peloponnesians having returned home. Though, how involved was Athens in ensuring this support would be fostered towards them and their bid on the leadership?
What would eventuate though, with the new circumstances and realities would look very different to the framework and objectives of the Hellenic league. What Athens and the eastern Greeks now recognised, was that they have created something new, with differing goals and objectives. This new group of city states would end up holding their first congress on Delos, establishing the mechanisms and objectives of the league. Today we call this league the Delian league and it would be the beginning of future events that would unfold in the Aegean that would be so influential to the area of the Classical Age in Greece.
This episodes podcast recommendation: Warlords of History Podcast
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Homer found over on Patreon.
I have decided to remain in the Archaic period for a little longer. This time we are going to turn to Homer and what is seen as the birth of epic poetry in Greece. The poetry Homer would produce and the works that would appear to imitate it would be labelled Homeric Poetry. In my look at Homer I plan to do a 3 part mini series over the next 3 bonus episodes. In this, the first, we will look at the man Homer, who he was and what has been attributed to him. We will then turn to the different elements that would make up Homeric poetry, before then briefly looking at two of his major works, The Iliad and The Odyssey. Though over the next 2 episodes we will be devoting one each to both of these works where we can explore them a bit deeper.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
New bonus episodes and series updates come out in the first week of every month,
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/castingthroughancientgreece)
The Persian invasion of 480 BC had now been defeated with the victory over Xerxes land forces on the Greek Boeotian plains outside Plataea. While his navy was destroyed in Persian controlled lands below mount Mycale on the Anatolian coast. The Greeks would continue operations into 479 under Athenian command for the first time, sailing into the Hellespont where Persian influence in the area would be extinguished.
In the meantime, the Athenians had been returning to Athens now that the Persians had been vanquished. Though, their city lay in ruins and would need to be rebuilt for a second time in a year. The building programs would be overseen by Themistocles, now back in political favour. The defensive walls he planned would attract the attention of the Spartans who would engage in talks to have them removed. Though, Themistocles with his usual cunning would see they would be complete before anything could be done.
The beginning of 478 BC would see yet another campaigning season begin over in the eastern Aegean. This time Sparta would be back in command, though this time Pausanias, who over saw the victory at Plataea would be leading the navy. Sparta seems to have recognised their misstep in abandoning the leadership the year before and now looked to regain their authority.
Though, the regent Pausanias would fall from favour and so to would the Spartan King Leotychides. Pausanias, now over in Anatolia would appear to invert the qualities found to describe him in Herodotus. He would become cruel, arrogant, corrupt and even traitors by some accounts, and would eventually end up on trial in Sparta, where he would be starved to death. Leotychides would also face corruption charges after campaigning in Thessaly where he would end up going into exile. So, within 10 years the commanders who had led the forces that saw the Persian defeat had fallen from grace and were seen as nothing more than criminals.
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I find it very fitting that with this 50th episode we are now transitioning into a new phase of Greek history. A point that is often officially seen where the Archaic Age ends and the Classical Age starts, its also where we say goodbye to Herodotus as our main foundational source and welcome in Thucydides. While it is also a major transitional event in the Greek world coming away from the Persian invasions, with all of the political and diplomatic developments that would occur leading to conflict from within the Greek world. Though, before picking back up the narrative, I wanted to provide an introduction to this period we will be spending quite some time with. To do this I have invited Prof. James Romm on the show to help give us an introduction to Thucydides and the subject of his history, the Peloponnesian War. I had decided to reach out to Prof. Romm as I had recently come across a book he was involved in titled “The Greek Histories” with came out this year. This work is focused on providing an introduction to a number of Ancient Greek writers, of who Thucydides was one. So, I felt this was perfect timing given where we were currently in the series.
James Romm is an author, reviewer, and the James H. Ottaway Jr. Professor of Classics at Bard College in Annandale, NY. He specializes in ancient Greek and Roman culture and civilization. His reviews and essays have appeared in the New Yorker, the Wall Street Journal, the London Review of Books, the Daily Beast, and other venues. He has held the Guggenheim Fellowship (1999-2000), the Birkelund Fellowship at the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Center for Writers and Scholars at the New York Public Library (2010-11), and a Biography Fellowship at the Leon Levy Center of the City University of New York (2014-15). Prof. Romm is also the author and editor of a number of books including but not limited to, The Sacred Band, Ghost on the Throne, The Greek Histories, the how to, an ancient guide series of books and the landmark Arrian, the Campaigns of Alexander the Great.
James Romm's Links:WebsiteTwitter
James Romm's Books:
The Greek Histories
The Sacred Band
How to Give: An Ancient Guide to Giving and Receiving
How to Keep Your Cool: An Ancient Guide to Anger Management
How to Die: An Ancient Guide to the End of Life
Dying Every Day: SENECA AT THE COURT OF NERO
Ghost on the Throne
Herodotus
The Edges o
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Changing Warfare and the Hoplite found over on Patreon.
How wars were fought on the Greek mainland would go through a period of change and evolution, much like many other areas of culture. This would see the heavily armoured aristocratic warriors of the Bronze Age, riding their chariots into battle fade from history. As the Bronze Age moved into the dark ages and then into the Archaic period, how the Greeks fought would change dramatically, with these changes appearing to be tied with the political and social structures of the societies.
We would end up seeing a new type of fighter emerge, that of the Hoplite, who unlike the warriors of the Bronze Age, was a solider part of a formation much larger and important than the individual. In this episode we will look at this change in warfare along with the emergence of the Hoplite and attempt to understand why and how they came about.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
New bonus episodes and series updates come out in the first week of every month,
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The Greek city of Miletos in western Anatolia would be described by Herodotus as being the ornament of Ionia. This referring to the affluence of the city during the Archaic period and its position amongst the many other Greek cities in Ionia. In this episode I am joined by Prof. Vanessa Gorman who takes us through the history of this wealthy and influential city. We begin by covering the earliest periods of history around the site of Miletus, which leads us into the Bronze Age and the various connections the city had. We then look at the period of the Bronze Age collapse in the region and the period afterward that would see the arrival of the Greeks from mainland Greece. We then look at a city that would become one of the most affluent within the Greek world during the Archaic period. Before we then turn to the decline of Miletus on the backdrop of the subjugation to the Lydian and then the Persian Empire. We then finish off with a bit of an overview of the city after the Greek and Persian Wars before then ending with a look at an open-source language course developed by Prof. Gorman.
Prof. Vanessa Gorman received her PhD in Classical Studies at the University of Pennsylvania in May 1993. Since then, she has held various position as associate professor and associate dean, where in 2015 she became Professor of the Department of History at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a position she currently still holds. In 2021 she also took on a position in the Department of Classics and Religious Studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Prof. Gorman’s areas of expertise lay within the areas of Greek History and Historiography; Greek Language Pedagogy; Philology and Dependency Syntax and Digital Humanities. While she also focuses on Republican and Augustan Roman History and Roman Historiography.
For Prof. Gorman, language was a huge part of her journey into understanding the ancient world to where she would become proficient in reading Ancient Greek, Latin, German, Italian and French. Her realisation of the importance of language also saw Prof. Gorman create an open-source course available to all called Reading Ancient Greek in the Digital Age.
Links to Prof. Gorman’s work:
Greek Lanuage Site:
https://vgorman1.github.io/Greek-Language-Class/
Digital Publications:
Greek Dependency Treebanks:
https://github.com/vgorman1/Greek-Dependency-Trees
https://perseids-publications.github.io/gorman-trees/
Books:
https://www.amazon.com/Miletos-Ornament-Ionia-History-B-C/dp/0472037773/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1648058469&sr=8-1
https://www.amazon.com/Corrupting-Luxury-Ancient-Greek-Literature/dp/0472052292/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1648058524&sr=8-3
Edited Volumes:
https://www.amazon.com/Oikistes-Constitutions-J-Bibliotheca-Supplementum/dp/9004125795/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?crid=1BCPSW0TOAWFZ&keywords=o+Oikistes%3A+Studies+in+Constitutions&qid=1648058666&sprefix=o+oikis
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The Ionian Greeks along with their allies from Athens and Eretria had entered and burn Sardis, though they failed to take the Acropolis. They withdrew back to the coast where the Persian would catch up to them and fight the battle of Ephesus. The Greeks would be defeated with the survivors making for their cities, the Athenians and Eritreans sailing home to take no more part in the revolt.
With no more aid coming from Greek lands, the Ionians would now take measures that would see the revolt spread throughout other parts of Anatolia. By 497, Much of Aeolia, the Hellespont, Caria and even as far south as Cyprus would be in open revolt. Though, with the revolt spreading, the Persians would be arranging a response to punish those responsible and bring these lands back under their control.
Multiple Persian armies would operate throughout the western parts of the empire seeing that Cyprus would once again become a Persian possession. Further operations would also see the trade rich areas of the Hellespont coming back under Persian control. Caria and Ionia would prove slightly more of a challenge. Caria would see hard fighting and would see the Persians having to deal with partisan operations. While In Ionia, a major set piece battle would be fought before the Persians could begin reducing the Ionian cities one by one. Eventually, western Anatolia would be back in Persian hands.
Persia’s attention would then shift west to Greek lands, where the Ionians, now Persian subjects once again would be part of the forces marching west. They would make up a sizable portion of the Persian navy during both the first and second Persian invasions. With the Greek victory over Persia during the invasions, the war would enter Persian lands in Ionia. The Ionians would now be encouraged to revolt for the second time, with the spark being lit during the battle of Mycale. The region would become important during future operations, with events and decisions leading to unintended consequences for a new generation of Greeks.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, The Recovery of Writing found over on Patreon.
In this bonus episode we look deeper into the re-emergence of writing in Greek lands as the region was transitioning from the Dark Ages and into the Archaic Age. Writing was not a new invention in Greek lands, the Mycenaeans of the Bronze Age used a scripted known as Linear B for administrative purposes. Though, with the Bronze Age collapse, the Mycenaeans, along with Linear B would disappear. What would emerge in Greece as the land began to recover would be a new script borrowed from the Phoenicians, but altered by the Greeks to become the Greek alphabet.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
New bonus episodes and series updates come out in the first week of every month,
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/castingthroughancientgreece)
The words of the Delphic oracle had rung true, the rising empire founded by Cyrus the great, the Persians had just destroyed a mighty empire, in that of king Croesus and his Lydians. The Greeks of Ionia had stood by idle only having been subjected to the Lydians a generation earlier. Cyrus had tried to incite the Greeks to rebel, though they would wait to see which way the winds would blow.
With the Persian victory the Greeks now sought to arrange favourable terms with the new power in the region. Though, their fence sitting would find their attempts met with anger and distain from Cyrus. With Sardis captured and only mopping up operations left in the west, Cyrus departed back into the empire leaving his commanders to finish the job.
As the Persians absorbed the Lydian system into their own, resistance would develop with one last effort of the Lydians attempting to regain control. Cyrus would learn of the Lydian revolt and detach an army to head back to stamp it out as quickly as possible. With the revolt under control measures were now taken to punish those regions involved. This would see all of the Greek cities along the Anatolian coast now fully integrated into the Persian Empire.
After a generation living under Persian control, dissatisfaction in the Ionian Greek cities would begin to make itself known. The Greeks were living under tyrannies acting in the interests of the Persians, though they had not been particularly popular before this time also. A combination of tyrannical rule, Persian tribute pressures as well as personal ambitions would all end up seeing a revolt develop in Ionia. The Ionians would take the initiative and launch an attack on Sardis, though it would fail and the revolt would drag on for a number of years.
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With the collapse of the Bronze Age the Hittite Empire which had dominated Anatolian lands would vanish from the world stage. Its presence and legacy would only be rediscovered in our modern times showing the influence it once held. With its destruction the region of Anatolia would fragment into many small kingdoms and principalities looking to exert control in their immediate areas.
With the passage of time, recovery would take hold seeing conditions arise for the establishment of another empire to spread its influence into Anatolia. Though, internal problems would see that outside pressure would lead to the decline of the Neo-Assyrians, thanks to the Medes and Babylonians. But they would not be the next great empire to emerge. The Persians would rise up out of obscurity and incorporate the Medes into their newly created empire, before then expanding to include much of Asia Minor.
Meanwhile over on the West coast of Anatolia, the Greeks had been arriving on the shores, from across the Aegean. Perhaps the collapse of Mycenaean civilisation seen the first influx of Greeks, but the migrations would continue. This would end up seeing a great many Greek cities dot the Anatolian coast line and see such areas as Ionia form. Though, they had not settled in lands that were empty, with hostile and friendly interactions taking place.
One of the largest powers to have developed in the western part of Anatolia during the period the Greeks were settling, was the Lydian kingdom. They would be seen to have roots stretching back into the Bronze Age, though it would be their third and final dynasty that would enter the pages of history. By the time of the last Lydian king, Croesus, all the Greek cities of Ionia would no longer be free but under the Lydian Empire, well that was until ever expanding Persia arrived on the eastern Lydian boarder. Cyrus the Great of Persian would defeat the Lydians and absorb them into his empire, the largest yet seen. The Greeks, would not gain their freedom, but would now answer to a new master.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, The Olympic Games found over on Patreon.
We now visit the event that would come to define the start of the Archaic Age, the Period we are now exploring. The modern Olympic Games would take their inspiration from the Ancient games first held in 776 BC at the Polis of Olympia, give them their name.
In this episode we look at the revival of the ancient tradition just over 100 years ago, which would establish the modern Olympics still held today. We then look to the Ancient games, what they were and how they were apart of Greek culture, While also seeing the differences with what we celebrate today.
We then look at the 1000 year period they would be held, seeing how they would end up declining and vanishing from history.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
New bonus episodes and series updates come out in the first week of every month,
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45: The Greek Periphery, Anatolia
We now arrive to the east of Greek lands in what would become one of the most influential regions to Greek history on its periphery. Anatolia, also known as Asia Minor would have a history of human habitation stretching back over 1 million years, with other sites dotted throughout the region pointing to its continued habitation for the hundreds of thousands of years following.
As the world was coming out of the Ice Age some 12000 years ago, it would enter the Neolithic Age. Hunter-gatherers were seen to have been the only groups to have occupied all the inhabited areas of the world. Though, recent discoveries in Anatolia would start to question the long-held views of hunter-gather societies. The Sites of Çatalhöyük and Göbekli Tepe would suggest these groups were able to organise themselves on a far grander scale than previously thought.
As the Millennia passed distinct cultures would start to form with most settling into a sedentary way of life. This would see civilisations form around powerful centres ushering in the Bronze Age and the rise of empires. One of the greatest to emerge in Anatolia would be the Hittites, also developing through Indo-European migrations from the north. Much around the Hittites remains mysterious, though in more recent years, steady progress on translating the many Hittites text found at its capitol Hattusa is starting to give us a glimpse into the empire’s workings.
Though, Anatolia would also feel the effects of the Bronze Age collapse with the Hittite Empire vanishing from history, with only traces of its culture found amounts some of the fragmented kingdoms that would scatter the region. With the collapse would see a number of new comers to the region, one of these would be the Greeks, decedents of the Mycenaeans, who would dot the western coast with many of their cities.
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The eve of the Greek and Persian wars would see a point in Macedonian history where the transition of power from one king to another would take place. This would see Amyntas after his rule since the mid 6th century pass power to his son Alexander the first at the opening of the 5th. This would take place on the backdrop of Persian advances into Thrace before Macedon would then begin engaging diplomatically.
It becomes difficult to tell at what point Macedon would offer earth and water to the Persian empire, with colourful stories entering into the historical record. Though, by the time of the first invasion it seems Macedon had submitted in some form. The marriage of Alexanders sister to a Persian governor, also a relative of Xerxes would seem to indicate this.
Alexander and his Macedonians would appear in Herodotus’ narrative a number of times as Xerxes invasion unfolded. They would be shown to provide assistance as the Persians marched through their lands, while also providing advice to the Greeks as they prepared to defend their lands, before and during battles.
Alexanders position during the invasions was a difficult one. He was a benefactor and friend of the Athenians, though he had also submitted to the Persians and expected to assist their campaign against the Greeks. This would see Alexander to play a delicate balancing game as the war unfolded, being careful to maintain his relationship with the Greeks, though also ensuring not to anger Xerxes and his obligations, or risk the ruin of his lands.
This episodes book recommendation: Herodotus, The Histories (Translated by Tom Holland)
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, The Lelantine War found over on Patreon.
The Lelantine War is an obscure conflict to us today, thanks to the very limited sources focusing on this war. Though, what dose seem to come through in the various fragments, making reference to the conflict, is the grand scale this war would be waged on. The Lelantine War would be waged right at the beginning of the Archaic period in Greek lands, between Greek cities. Our sources placing its importance comparable to other great conflicts such as; the Trojan War, the Greco-Persian Wars and the Peloponnesian War. Though, unlike those conflicts, we are left to hypothesize to a greater degree thanks to the very limited information available.
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Many tribes existed throughout the Balkan region in the Neolithic to the Bronze Age where we would see defined cultures develop with the onset of the Iron Age. We hear origin stories and hints at the early Macedonians in Myth through Homer and Hesiod. We even get through Herodotus, the hint of a tribe called the Makednoi during the Bronze Age in the mountains north of Greece.
The culture of the Macedonians that emerge in the Archaic Age and into the Classical Age, would seem to be the result of many migrations that had been filtering south into Greek lands as well as other locations. These migrations would be seen to have peoples with Indo-European roots consistently moving through much of the Balkans through many generations, help spread a common root language and ideas.
It wouldn’t be until Herodotus that we start to hear about the origins of the Macedonian dynasty, the Argead, develop. Although this was some 250 years after the foundation of the kingdom of Macedon, it appears to be the official account coming from the Macedonia court. This traditional telling would see the Argeads being descendants of Heracles and coming from the city of Argos down on the Peloponnese.
The kingdom established, rule in Macedon appears to be somewhat stable with dates of the various kings being very respectable lengths. During these generations the territory of the Macedonians would expand out of the Pierian Mountains, north of Mount Olympus. By the opening of the Greek and Persian Wars and under the 7th King Alexander I, they would control lands along the coast of the Pierian Mountains, the coastal plains around the Thermaic Gulf and north across the Haliacmon River.
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Mycenaean Aftermath found over on Patreon.
Having looked at some of the explanations for the Mycenaeans collapse at the end of the Bronze Age, we now turn to questions around what happened to them and where did they go. We look at what was taking place in Greek lands in the wake of the collapse, while also turning to areas across the Mediterranean.
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Greek and Roman writers would highlight the Thracians as some of the best mercenaries fielded in foreign armies from the mid-5th century and beyond. They would excel at hit and run tactics, harassing heavier troops and being able to defend difficult ground. This reputation would appear to be born out of their tradition of Homeric style warfare practiced in their own lands. Though we get no detailed accounts of how they fought against one another in their home territories.
Our knowledge of the Thracians in war during the 6th and early 5th centuries comes to us thanks to account revolving around the Greek and Persian wars found in the Histories written by Herodotus. This would see their history during this period told through the context of various Persian campaigns through their lands, therefore lacking the details of how they fought, though we can get an idea from their reputation as warriors in later histories.
Thracian lands would become a crossroads for Persian campaigns during the close of the 6th and opening of the 5th centuries BC. Initially Persia would attempt to expand north into Scythian lands, where a path through Thracian lands would need to be secured. Though the hold in Thrace during this period would only stay intact as long as a sizable occupying force was present. After the Scythian campaign continued attempts would be made to secure the regions close to the Persian Empires frontiers with mixed results.
The most successful period of Persian control would come during the lead up to and during the Greek and Persian Wars. A sizable Persian force would secure lands in Thrace and Macedonian paving a way forward to Greece. The Persians held enough control in Thracian coastal regions to construct their monumental engineering feats to prepare for Xerxes invasion. Though, with the ultimate Persian defeat in Greece, Thrace would once again become very inhospitable to Persians within their lands.
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North East of Greece would be a land seen as wild and untamed stretching from the modern-day nation of Hungary to the Ukraine, and then to the Black Sea and Aegean. The Greeks would view the people that inhabited these lands as barbarians, much the same way they did to other cultures that differed from theirs. Though these people that they would call the Thracians, seemed that much more uncivilised compared to the other barbarians they had encountered.
Although the Greeks would call them Thracian, a united people they were not. these people would be a lose collection of tribes with a shared common culture. Herodotus would say of the Thracians; “If they could all be united under one ruler and think the same way, they would, in my opinion, be the most invincible and strongest of all nations. But that is impossible; it will never happen, since their weakness I that they are incapable of uniting and agreeing.”
The Thracians would be a result of earlier Neolithic cultures that had formed in the Balkans thousands of years earlier. The Thracian identity that would come to describe their shared culture would be a result of these indigenous Balkan cultures interacting with the numerous Indo-European migrations that would take place as the Bronze Age developed.
Thrace would enter into the Greeks memory as far back as the Trojan War through Homers epic poem the Iliad. Though it wouldn’t be until the 7th and 6th centuries where Thrace would truly enter the Greek periphery. Greek colonies would begin to dot the Thracian coast lines, where trade of goods and ideas would take place in both times of peace and times of tension.
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As the 6th century BC on Sicily was coming to a close expansion would continue to take place. Tyrannies were now becoming the common governing system in a lot of the Sicilian Greek cities, appearing to follow the lead of their Metropolises back in Greece. This time though expansion would see Greeks focus on exerting their influence over other Greek cities.
This period would also see the rise of one of the most powerful Tyrants to yet emerge on Sicily, his name would be Gelon. His rise would be born out of a series of Tyrannies, to where his service to them would see him almost seamlessly take power thanks to the influence and reputation he had built up over the years.
Gelon would end up controlling almost the entire east cost of Sicily with campaigns that he would engage in during the early 5th century. His biggest prize would be that of Syracuse the largest and wealthiest city on the island. Though, Gelon’s campaigns would not go unnoticed with Carthage now preparing to launch an invasion of Sicily, sparking what is known as the first Sicilian War.
Carthage would land a force of unprecedented size on the north of the island indicating the threat their influence was under. They would march to the city Himera and establish camps outside the city. Gelon would be alerted to the Carthaginian army and would march his own army to defend the city. With both forces camped across from one another it wouldn’t be long until the Battle of Himera would erupt.
This episodes book recommendation is The Tyrants of Syracuse Vol 1, by Ian Champion
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, The Mycenaeans Trojan War found over on Patreon.
We now zoom in a little bit closer on the Mycenaeans now that we have arrived at the Bronze Age collapse. Here we will look at what evidence seems to be showing of possible reasons that would lead to the collapse of the Mycenaeans. This would see their civilisation fade into the past while taking place in the context of the wider Bronze Age world collapse.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
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*Give Away details*
To coincide with this episode release I will be running a giveaway where I will be offering up 2 copies of Eric Cline’s Book, 1177 BC the Year Civilisation Collapsed, where winners will be drawn on the 1st of November 2021. 1 copy I will be offering as a general giveaway, where all you need to do to go into the draw is to promote Casting Through Ancient Greece in some way on Twitter or Facebook, this could be retweeting or sharing the episode with a comment or posting about the show in general in some other way, get creative. Just make sure to tag casting through ancient Greece into the post so I don’t miss it. For the second copy I will be giving this away to one of my Patreon members, all you need to do to be eligible for this draw is to be a member of Casting Through Ancient Greece on Patreon before names are drawn on the 1st of November. So good luck everyone and the winners will be contacted and posted up on social media once drawn.
Bronze Age Collapse with Prof. Eric Cline:
The Bronze Age Collapse would see a number of Great civilisations disappear from the Aegean and Near east. For thousands of years the events around this period have remained somewhat mysterious. We would hear echoes of this period in the myths and poems told by the Greeks, as well as accounts in biblical texts.
With the onset of archaeological discoveries in the 19th century of our time some of the mystery began to be lifted, seeing these tales having some historical context to them. As the discipline of Archaeology developed more evidence of the late Bronze Age has come to light, helping historians paint more credible theories.
In this episode I talk to Prof. Eric Cline about the discipline of archaeology and his book 1177 BC where he talks about the late Bronze Age world and the Collapse it would suffer. He details the various evidence that has shown itself in the historical record to help us understand what was happing during this world changing period of time.
Eric H. Cline is Professor of Classics, History, and Anthropology, the former Chair of the Department of Classical and Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations, and the current Director of the Capitol Archaeological Institute at George Washington University, in Washington DC. A National Geographic Explorer, NEH Public Scholar, Getty Scholar, and Fulbright Scholar with degrees from Dartmouth, Yale, and the University of Pennsylvania, he is an active field archaeologist with more than 30 seasons of excavation and survey experience in Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Cyprus, Greece, Crete, and the United States, including ten seasons at Megiddo (1994-2014), where he served as co-director before retiring from the project in 2014, and another ten seasons at Tel Kabri, where he currently serves as Co-Director. He is the author or editor of 20 books and nearly 100 articles; translations of his books have appeared in nineteen different languages.
Links:
Twitter @digkabriAuthor Page on Amazon Books:1177 BC: The Year Civilisation Collapsed
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39: Sicily, Conflict & Tyrants
The wave of Greek colonisation taking place in the 8th and 7th centuries wouldn’t be the end of the Greeks seeking to establish new cities. More expeditions would be sent out from the Greek mainland, while the original Greek colonies of Sicily would also start establishing their own colonies. The eastern, southern and northern coasts would be the target for many of these expeditions, with the east seeing the largest concentration of Greeks.
As the colonies on Sicily began to mature and grow, political developments would follow a familiar path as to many of the mother cities. The political figure of the tyrant would emerge, not surprisingly, since most colonies would adopt a similar form of government to what had been in place from their metropolis’.
This ever-increasing growth of Greek colonies would also start to see conflict develop in and around Sicily. The Phoenicians had been present in the region for as long as the Greeks and had been engaging in trade. One of their colonies, Carthage was also now developing into a power in its own right and would take the lead in opposing the Greeks expansions.
By the end of the 6th century Carthage had secured much of its trade interests in the region with them at the head of an alliance including many of the Phoenician colonies of Africa, Sicily and Iberia. Though, the Greeks were firmly established on Sicily and in the region. Political developments would continue to evolve, as well as expansion, and with it, the inevitable conflict as the 6th century turned into the 5th century.
Todays episodes sponsor is Hello Fresh
Head to Hello Fresh here to receive $80 Discount ($50 - $20 - $10) Including Free Shipping on your First Box! with the code HFAFF80
Todays book recommendation is, Carthage's Other Wars by Dexter Hoyos
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, The Mycenaeans Trojan War found over on Patreon.
We continue our look through the Bronze Age arriving at the question, was the Trojan War a historical event. In this bonus episode we explore this question by looking at what has been uncovered in the Archaeological record and turn to the Hittite texts that have been translated.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
New bonus episodes and series updates come out in the first week of every month,
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/castingthroughancientgreece)
Todays episodes sponsor is Hello Fresh
Head to Hello Fresh here to receive $80 Discount ($50 - $20 - $10) Including Free Shipping on your First Box! with the code HFAFF80
"Shattering the Myth of Spartan Warrior Supremacy"
The Spartans are one of the most recognisable ancient Greek societies in our modern day. Though, just about no writing from the Spartans themselves survives, everything we know about them comes from outsiders looking in. This has resulted in many Myths and stereotypes to develop over the ages. In this episode, Myke Cole sits down and talks about his latest book, The Bronze Lie, Shattering the myth of Spartan Warrior supremacy, where he peals back the myth and gives the Spartans and their society a human face and story.
Myke Cole has had a colourful and varied career, with service in war and crisis response. Myke’s writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Daily Beast, The New Republic, and Foreign Policy. He is the author of Legion versus Phalanx: The Epic Struggle for Infantry Supremacy in the Ancient World. Myke is also a popular fantasy and science fiction novelist with several major imprints. He appeared on CBS’ hit TV show Hunted, where he joined a team of elite investigators pursuing fugitives across the southeastern United States, and later starred on Discovery Channel’s Contact alongside fellow Osprey author Dr Michael Livingston. And now Myke has written his second work on history, the Bronze Lie, Shattering the myth of Spartan warrior supremacy.
Links for Myke Cole:
Twitter – @MykeCole
Facebook – Myke Cole
Website – www.mykecole.com
Find Myke’s book here on AmazonThe Bronze LieLegion Versus Phalanx
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38: The Greek Periphery, SicilyThe prehistory of Sicily, well before the Greeks arrived is still to this day shrouded in some mystery. We are left with a written tradition from a number of Greek writer but they were writing about a past some thousand years before their time. Modern attempts at understanding this period are even debated, which leaves us with our best guesses based off of what is found in modern research and what the ancients say.
The Island of Sicily west of Greek lands would come into the Greek periphery as the Mediterranean was emerging out of the Dark Ages. Trade would once again begin to flow from the west as it had done during the Bronze Age to the Mycenaeans. Though, with the collapse of the Bronze Age much of this trade would be disrupted as various civilisations went into decline or disappeared completely.
Though, as trade began increasing, more Greek cities would have been setting up their own trading connections at Sicily. Eventually, the various Greek city states would send out expeditions to found colonies on the island. This would provide relief with the over population problem that was beginning to occur in some of the larger cities, while also opening up more markets to the Greek mainland.
The Greeks were not the only people present on Sicily, with it home to three separate indigenous cultures according to the written tradition. Also present was that of the Phoenicians, a civilisation originating in the Levant and the founders of the famous city of Carthage. They were also engaging in trade and establishing their own colonies. All these different peoples would for the most past during the 8th century BC, co-exist peacefully, but as time went on and more colonies emerged, interests would start to be encroached upon.
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Todays book recommendation is, Sicily, A short History from the ancient Greeks to Cosa Nostra
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Mycenaean International Connections found over on Patreon.
We now continue with our focus on the Mycenaeans, this time looking closer at their relations with other lands. We will first look at their trading activities, with what they were importing from other civilisations. Then we will turn to what they were exporting along the numerous trade routes. Finally we will look at other foreign contacts that we get glimpses of, though as with most matters around the Mycenaeans, the picture we get is fragmentary at best.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
New bonus episodes and series updates come out in the first week of every month, our next bonus episode to come out on Patreon will be; Mycenaeans, the coming of the Greeks.
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Herodotus; The Father of Lies.
“Because it is simple and lacking in effort and easily runs over events, has thoroughly deceived many people” (Plutarch, on the Malice of Herodotus)
Plutarch would be but one historian to level criticisms at Herodotus from the ancient past all the way through to our times. Often, we see the common title given to Herodotus, the Father of History turned on its head to, Herodotus, the Father of Lies, due to his willingness to include strange and wonderful tales.
We will look at a number of aspects that have been used to criticise Herodotus over the ages, with us beginning with the sources he used, were they to be trusted in themselves. As we will discover there is no easy answer to this since Herodotus’ sources would be wide ranging.
Next, we will then turn to the reliability of Herodotus’ reporting of his sources and other various means of collecting information. Once again, we will explore some examples and see the challenge before him with such a diverse range of sources to make sense of subjects.
Herodotus would also be the target of click bait articles and online forums in our time. Though, we will see often these arguments misrepresent him and miss what Herodotus even tells us in his accounts. We will look at examples involving gold digging ants, Cyclopes’ stealing gold from griffins and the millions of Persians at Thermopylae.
One thing I tell people to keep in mind when reading Herodotus, Herodotus wasn’t attempting to invent history. This was a title later ascribed to him because of the novel way he was presenting information in his time. Herodotus may well be the father of history, but like a child history would grow and mature over time, becoming what it is today.
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Todays book recommendation is A Commentary on Herodotus: Vol 1 & Vol 2
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“Herodotus of Halicarnassus here presents his research so that human events do not fade with time. May the great and wonderful deeds – some brought forth by the Hellenes, others by the barbarians – not go unsung; as well as the causes that led them to make war on each other.”
Herodotus, Proem
These are the opening lines from the oldest surviving work of history in the western world and would open so much more than just an account of the Greek and Persian wars.
In this first episode on Herodotus, we will look at who Herodotus was, as much as the known information lets us. We will also turn to looking at what his ambitious work, the Histories would cover. There is so much more than just a historical account, with geography, anthropology, ethnography, folklore and even hints of Philosophy.
His work would be broken up into nine books into the medieval period, each book denoting a scroll that the Histories was originally written on. Within these books would be many digressions that Herodotus would become well known for and where we see many of the elements that would make this so much more than a history come into play.
We also look at the potential sources Herodotus would have used, from written accounts, his enquires and his own observations. We take for granted the process of gathering sources today, but back 2500 years ago there would have been a number of hurdles for someone seeking reason for events in the past.
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Todays book recommendation is Landmark Herodotus
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode over on Patreon, the coming of the Greeks.
In this bonus episode we move to looking at the next Bronze Age civilisation in the Aegean, the Mycenaeans. Here we will focus in on the notion that they were the ancestors of the Classical Greeks. This theory only being accepted in the last 70 years due to evidence through archaeology and linguistics coming to light.
For the full version of the episode plus many more you can head to Casting Through Ancient Greece Patreon page
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The Greco-Persian Wars:
The Greek and Persian wars would be a defining moment in the Greek world helping shape the trajectory of development in Greece and around the Aegean for time to come. Even today a detailed ancient account survives describing the events of 2500 years in what is one of the oldest works of history. Herodotus who has been labelled the father of history would be born during the wars and would travel the Greek world later in life collecting all he could, so as to understand what brought the Greeks and Persian to make war.
In this episode we will be looking back at the last 18 episodes that looked at the Greco-Persian Wars and try and tie everything together, so as to refresh ourselves on all that has taken place over the 21 years since the Ionian revolt. This will then put us in a good position to then move on with the narrative of the series.
The Greek and Persian Wars are often seen as beginning with the decision by Athens and Eretria to send ships to aide the Ionian revolt. Herodotus would say; “These ships were the beginnings of evil for both Hellenes and Barbarians”. The revolt would ultimately fail and Persian attention would now be focused on Greece.
Two main invasions would be launched that would directly attack Greece, these coming in 490 BC and 48 BC. In these two invasions we see some of the most well know battles take place such as Marathon, Thermopylae and Salamis. Though some lesser known would also be fought, but just as, if not more important battles, Plataea, Mycale and Artemisium.
The Greeks would end up defeating the Persian invasions but this wouldn’t see the end of operations. The Persian threat still loomed large in their minds and measures were taken to strengthen themselves against any further invasions. This as we move forward in the series would have consequences shaping politics and relations as the years past.
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Todays book recommendation is Persian Fire by Tom Holland
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This is a teaser of the bonus episode, The Atlantis Minoan Connection found over on Patreon.
Over on Patroen I had a little fun with the latest bonus episode looking at the connections between the tale of Atlantis to the Bronze Age civilisation of the Minoans. I also look into the areas that don't support these connections, other areas that have been put forward, as well as the view this was all Plato's invention, with no historical context.
If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here
New bonus episodes and series updates come out in the first week of every month, our next bonus episode to come out on Patreon will be; Mycenaeans, the coming of the Greeks.
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In this interview Episode I sit down and chat with the author Mark Adams about his book, "Meet me in Atlantis". We talk about his experiences and what he learnt about Plato's tale of the lost city of Atlantis. He also talks about the many people he met during his research for the book and where he also tells their stories.
MARK ADAMS is the author of the acclaimed history Mr. America, which The Washington Post named a Best Book of 2009, and the bestsellers Tip of the Iceberg, Meet Me in Atlantis and Turn Right at Machu Picchu, which has been named one of the fifty greatest adventure books of all time. His work has appeared in many national publications, including GQ, the New York Times, and Rolling Stone. He has appeared as a guest on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, The Howard Stern Show, NPR Weekend Edition and other programs. Recently, two of his articles for Men's Journal were selected by the editors for their list of the magazine's ten best stories of the 2010s. He is currently working on a new book about the Catholic monk Thomas Merton's historic 1968 pilgrimage to study Buddhism in the Himalayas.
www.markadamsbooks.com
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We have now reached the end of the Greco-Persian Wars, but with most of our sources focusing on the Greek experience and perhaps not giving us a completely accurate picture of the Persians. In this episode we are going to delve deeper into Persia’s experience in the Wars, look at their motivations and what led them to, ultimately being unsuccessful.
To do this I have invited Trevor Culley from the History of Persia Podcast to come on and share his knowledge about the Persians with us, and help us look at the Persian perspective during the Wars.
Trevor’s personal experience with both Persian history and podcasts began with a college extra credit assignment to listen to the first Hardcore History episode on the Achaemenids. He was instantly enthralled with the stories of the Kings of Kings and coming a little late to the party, started listening to podcasts. On one hand, He started heading down the road toward PhD that will let him study ancient Persia for a living. On the other, as he binged his way through both the History of Rome and early episodes of the History of Byzantium he was always excited for the episodes dealing with the Parthians and Sassanids. Trevor was surprised and disappointed to discover that there was not a similarly dedicated podcast dealing with the great empires east of Rome. This would inspire and motivate him to create the History of Persia Podcast back at the start of 2019.
History of Persia Links:
Website
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The Persian Empire had launched its first invasion against Greece in 492 BC after their involvement in the Ionian revolt. The campaign that came across the Aegean Sea would fall short of capturing Athens in 490 BC at the Bay of Marathon, seeing the invaders withdraw back into the empire. Though, Greece was not forgotten, Xerxes the new king launching the second invasion in 480 BC.
The second invasion would see one of the largest forces ever assembled to march west, heading through northern lands into Greece. This invasion would see a number of land and naval battles fought over the next two years. Defeats at Salamis, Plataea and Mycale would see the second invasion stopped with the Persians failing in subjugating all of Hellas.
How did the Persian army being the size it was fail to capture Greece? Had their equipment and training been up to the same standard as the Greeks? Had they underestimated the way the Greeks fought, with their lands and armies quite different to what they encountered in the east. Or had their sheer size and reliance on various nations for their numbers brought them undone?
Although the Greeks had won a major victory with it defining a generation, how did this affect the Persian Empire? Victory verses defeat is not often a zero-sum game. The Greek theatre was on the extreme western fringe of the Empire and the integrity of the Persian Empire remained intact. But the defeat and the ongoing operations would have consequences as the decade’s past.
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The Hellenic league had now been victorious in two major engagements of 479 BC, at Plataea on the Greek mainland and Mycale in Persian territory. This would effectively see the end of the Persian invasion, and the Greeks victorious. Though, this was not immediately apparent and measures would be taken in the years to come to make sure they would not return.
With the Greek victory, a responsibility to honour the gods that had assisted them needed to be attended to. One did not want to risk offending a god who had helped their city, or disaster could be just around the corner. The various polies would construct monuments and sanctuaries over the years after the victory to show their gratitude. At Delphi, a collective monument would be constructed that listed all of the Greek cities who had been the defenders of Greece.
Back on the ground in Greece after Plataea, mopping up operations continued as Pausanias camped with the army on the Boeotian plains outside of Thebes. His focus now shifted to having the city answer for their crime of Medizing. Operations would also continue off the coast of Anatolia, with the fleet now making for the Hellespont and clearing Persian garrisons on this vital trade route.
With the campaign season of 479 coming to a close the Greeks contingents would now make for the safe ports of their various city states and Islands. But this would not be the end of operations in the Aegean. This could be seen as the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. The decisions and events that would follow, would have ramifications for generations to come.
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Jeff Murray is a pen and ink artist that creates intricate works on canvas inspired by exploration and travel. He resides and has setup a studio in a rural setting in the UK where he can peruse his passion in a peaceful environment.
Many of Jeff's works explore the various cities and continents of the world from a very unique perspective. While he has also been inspired by the natural world, either incorporating these elements into his works or taking them as the subject for the piece.
Recently Jeff has been exploring the ancient world and making this the subject of some of his most recent works. He has been absorbed in the stories of ancient times through works of history, art, myths, podcasts and even video games. From this he has taken what he has learnt and reimagined these times and stories and translated them onto canvas.
In this interview I sit down with Jeff and explore his journey as an artist and then we move onto looking at his Greek and ancient world inspired pieces.
For 10% off Jeff's latest creation, Seven, head to www.jeffmurray.co.uk and apply the coupon code "SEVEN10" when checking out (Valid until the 8th June 2021)
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The battle of Plataea had been fought and won on the plains of Boeotia, seeing the Persian land forces finally defeated. Though, this wasn’t the end of the campaign, there was still yet another battle to be fought. Tradition would have it that it took place on the very same day as the victory at Plataea. This would see a transition in operations, now seeing the war arrive in Persian territory.
The Greek fleet had also been preparing for operations as the campaigning season of 479 BC approached. The navy commanded by the Spartan king Leotychidas had set up base at the island of Delos after being approached by some Ionian exiles to support a revolt in Anatolia. Leotychidas was reluctant, he commanded a much smaller fleet than what had sailed the previous year. The Athenians yet to join the rest of the fleet.
Diplomatic manoeuvrings with Sparta may explain the Athenian absence, but perhaps compromise between the two would finally see the Hellenic fleet more than double in size with the Athenians arrival. We are told a Samian delegation to the Greek fleet would finally see it sail, but this influx of ships would have seen Leotychidas become more confident in sailing east. The Hellenic league now made its way to the Persians based at Samos.
The Persians would be alerted to the Greeks presence and fell back to the Anatolian coast, beached their ships and prepared defences at Mount Mycale. The Greeks pursued and what had begun as a naval operation would now be decided on land. The Greek victory here at Mycale would see Ionia once again break out in revolt while further operations from the Hellenic league would continue in the Aegean and Hellespont.
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For this episode I take a break from our narrative to bring you a collaboration that I had teamed up with Steve from Spartan History Podcast to record. We went into this conversation without any scripts and just a rough plan of what we wanted to cover.
Steve’s series, Spartan History Podcast, takes a deep dive into the history of the Spartans, beginning back in Mythological times. He is currently in the stages of how the institutions and practices that would define the Spartans were developing. I would encourage everyone to check out his series as I am sure you will learn some elements about the Spartans that I bet you didn’t know about before.
For this episode we begin by talking about ourselves and how we got into the podcasting world. We also look at what drew up towards Ancient Greek history. The conversation then evolved of many different tangents around Greek history, but we would come to focus on three many areas. I would look at the founding of Democracy in Athens with the early stages of its development. Steve then takes us for a closer look at Lycurgus and the question of if he was a historical figure. We then turn to the Greek and Persian War looking at who out of Athens and Sparta had been the most influential in their victory of Persia.
The collaboration has been split over two parts, with this episode being part 1. Part two is hosted on Steve’s show over at Spartan History Podcast. Below are a number of links to help you find his show and his social media pages, though he is easily found on all good podcast platforms.
www.spartanhistorypodcast.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2oYdMfzDbVzJUrddjpFF6e
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/spartan-history-podcast/id1489152895
Twitter: @Spartan_History
Facebook: Spartan History Podcast
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As the sun rose over the plains of Boeotia, the battle of Plataea would now finally be decided this day. The various Greek wings had got underway and began falling back in three sections, the centre having made its way back to Plataea. The Spartan wing had finally moved off leaving a rear-guard force to protect their withdrawal or the protesting Spartan battalion under Amompharetos, depending on how we interpret events here.
Amompharetos and his battalion would start making their way back to the main Spartan line once it had halted. This occurring as the sun was beginning to rise and revealed to the Persians, the Greek line now broken into three separate formations. This would now present Mardonios with the first viable opportunity for an all-out attack of the past ten days.
First the cavalry and then the infantry were sent rushing forward to engage the Greek line. Particular focus had been on the Spartan right wing where it could be seen an isolated formation was retreating without support. The battle that erupted would be fierce and intense all long the line. Most sources give the impression the centre of the Greek line shirked their duties, but hints to this not being the case have survive.
The Spartan wing was engaged with the Persian element of Mardonios forces, while the Athenian left, attempting to come to the Spartans aide were now evenly matched against the Greeks allied to Persia. Mardonios had come forward in the Persian attack to help bolter morale but would fall in battle due to a rock thrown from the Spartan lines. This would now see the Persian forces and their allies waver and a route back to the Persian palisade would take place. This palisade after more intense fighting would also be breached and a general slaughter of the Persians would ensue.
The Hellenic league had won the largest engagement of the Greco-Persian wars and effectively ended Xerxes second invasion.
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The Hellenic league had now arrived in the foothills of the Citheron Mountains, with still more contingents continually arriving throughout the hours and days to come. Pausanias, hastily deployed what forces were currently available down in the foothills where they would be protected to some degree. His mind was focused on forming a strong defensive line, as this had been the advice revealed by the omens.
The Persians had seen an opportunity for a cavalry action with it seeming part of the Greek line was exposed. The first action in the lead up to the battle now took place with the Persian cavalry harassing part of the Greek line. The Athenians would advance to support this part of the line and in the process, they would kill the Persian commander and repulse the cavalry.
This victory over the Persian cavalry would see the Greeks confidence grow and Pausanias now deployed the line further forward. This, though would open up more opportunities for Mardonius to exploit. Over the coming days without a general battle developing, the Greeks would lose their only feasible supply of fresh waster and to make matters worse their supply lines had been disrupted by the Persian Cavalry.
With the Greek army now in a precarious position, Pausanias ordered for the line to retreat back to more defensible terrain. Here they would also gain access to fresh water and they would be able to secure their supply lines coming out of the Citheron Mountains. Though, when the retreat began at night things did not go as planned and would put the Greek line in a very vulnerable position as the sun rose.
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Athens refusal of Mardonius offer to join the Persian side had seen the Persian army march back into Attica and take control of Athens for a second time in a year. The Athenians had once again evacuated the city back across to Salamis, while the Peloponnesians remained behind the wall being constructed across the Isthmus.
Mardonious would repeat his offer to the Athenians, now back in control of their city. But once again the Athenians would refuse. The Peloponnesians had previously in the campaign agreed to march north to meet the Persians in battle. They were now dragging their feet, with talks between the various city states seeming to get nowhere.
Finally, Athens had had enough and used the Persian offer to try and force the Spartans to act. They would make it known that they were considering the offer since the Hellenic league would not unite and no other choice available to them. This appeared to see a change in tune from the Spartans, surprising everyone that their army was in fact already on the march north. Though, other hazy political considerations may well have been at play also.
The various city states that made up the Hellenic league were now beginning to also march north after hearing that the Spartans were on the march. The further the Spartans marched the more the numbers of the army swelled. Eventually the Athenian force sailed from Salamis and would join the Spartans. With the news of the Greeks marching north Mardonious pulled out of Athens and deployed his army in country more suited to cavalry. The Hellenic league now more united than even, emerged out of the Citheron Mountains near the small polis of Plataea, where across the plains and Asopus river was the Persian army.
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The Greeks had just won the battle at Salamis but it wasn’t immediately clear the extent of their victory. The Persian fleet had been mauled and now had some breathing room to withdraw back across the Aegean unhindered. The Greeks expecting the Persians to resume the attack the next day, eventually gave chase but to no avail.
Xerxes and his commanders discussed the best way forward, he still had an intact and undefeated army on Greek soil. Though, political considerations and possible trouble brewing back in the Empire would see him withdraw back home.
The Persians would still continue the campaign without Xerxes present. His most trusted general Mardonius had been left in command of a picked fore to attempt to subjugate the rest of Hellas. The Persians would fall back into Thessaly for the winter and attempt you break Athens away from the Hellenic alliance.
Athens was now concerned at the inaction by the Peloponnesians who had returned to the Peloponnese behind the now near completed wall across the Isthmus. Though, Athens would reject the terms given which would see their city occupied for a second time in a year. They were once again taking refuge on Salamis and now desperate to get the Peloponnesians to march north.
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An update about what has been happening at Casting Through Ancient Greece.
Talking about what I have been doing over the last month or two while also discussing the direction of the series.
Big announcements regarding featuring ads into the episodes while also setting up a Patreon page. Supports of Patreon will have access to bonus episodes and more.
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In 2014 the sequel to the movie 300 was release, 300: Rise of an Empire. This time around the film would move away from the Spartans as its primary focus and put the spot light on Athens. Rise of an Empire would all have at the centre of its story the battles of Artemisium and Salamis which were both fought at sea and Artemisium occurring on the days as the battle of Thermopylae. Though how much of what is depicted in the movie is based on historical examples?
I will once again explore the main story line and themes that the film puts across while comparing what the ancient sources tell us about the events taking place over the period. This way we can see what the film has put across with fairly accurate historical context. While also seeing where its creators have stretched the historical record to fit their version of events. And of course, where they have basically written their own version of history.
By the end of the episode, hopefully you should have a pretty good understanding of what in the movie has a good grounding in history according to our ancient sources. Hopefully you have also been following the rest of the series where we have covered much of the events depicted from a historical point of view, helping further understanding the film historicity. So sit back and relax as we cast our way through 300: Rise of an Empire.
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The Greek fleet had assembled at the island of Salamis, but an agreement on strategy was far from united. To make matters worse, Xerxes had arranged for a show of force outside the straits which saw a few contingents panic and set sail at once. For the rest who remained a decision was made that the fleet would withdraw back to the Peloponnese the next morning.
This would see Athens lost for good and the rest of Greece more vulnerable than ever. Themistocles, though had other ideas and now arranged a ruse, bordering on treason, to try and unite the Greeks to fight at Salamis. He would send a messenger to Xerxes to try and entice him into action before the Greeks had a chance to depart.
Xerxes would act on the information that Themistocles had sent him, mobilising his entire fleet to try and defeat the Greek navy once and for all. The movements become a little confused but appears that both openings of the striates would be blocked in in one way or another. The Greeks would learn of their dire position, which would now see only one option open to them now, to fight.
The battle of Salamis would see the Greek fleet far outnumbered, but the vast number of the Persians would see this inhibit their movement within the striates. With Xerxes looking on, the commanders aboard the Persian ships would foul themselves on one another as they attempted to get into action to impress their king.
The Greeks would suffer many losses in the long days fighting, but the Persians had suffered far worse and were in full retreat out of the striates. As they fell back yet more carnage would follow as Greek ambushes were launched. The Persian fleet was now a spent force and the Greeks had won the battle of Salamis. Though, the level of their victory was not immediately apparent, also the Persian land forces were yet undefeated and the campaign would continue on.
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This Episodes recommended podcast is Battlefield command History podcast. Check out Ramsey's series here: https://battlefieldcommandpodcast.com/
The defenders of the last stand at Thermopylae and the Spartan king lay dead, the Persians now in control of the pass. At Artemisium, the Greeks had decided to withdraw from their position due to not being able to sustain the losses they were taking and news of the fall of Thermopylae. The path into central Greece was now open to Xerxes and his forces.
The Persian army would march throughout central Greece adding more cities to their list of subjected peoples. Those cities and villages that continued to resit in the face of the Persian forces were raised to the ground with their people fleeing, killed or captured. Though, some divine intervention would see the Persians being unable to add Delphi to it subjected peoples.
With the news of the Persian advance, Athens had been evacuating its people across to the Island of Salamis. Xerxes would arrive to a mostly deserted Acropolis, laying siege to the few defenders and then capturing the city. He was now in control of the ultimate prize and would now take revenge for the destruction at Sardis the Athenians had been involved in some 20 years earlier.
Athens now lay in ruins but the Athenians were still a powerful Polis. They still possessed one of the largest fleets in all of Greece. The other members of the Hellenic league were also on Salamis, but much debate was taking place on whether they should depart and make their way to the Peloponnese. The fate of Athens now rested on if the Greeks at Salamis could unite and challenge the Persians there. Themistocles, the Athenian leader would try all he could to make this a reality.
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The Initial defence plan the Hellenic league put into action saw a land force attempting to block the Persian army’s march into Greece. Though, this was part of a larger plan which also saw a Greek fleet take up a position at Artemisium to block the advance of the Persian navy. Their position was located some 40 miles north east of Thermopylae and would help protect the hoplites in the pass being outflanked by Xerxes armada.
The Greek fleet was commanded by the Spartan, Euryrbiades although they supplied one of the smallest contingents. The majority of the fleet was made up of Athenian vessels, with them being commanded by their cunning leader, Themistocles. Themistocles also comes down through history as a driving force in the fleet’s strategy and would influence the decisions made in the Greek camp.
Tradition has it that while the fighting was raging in the pass at Thermopylae, the naval action at Artemisium was also unfolding over the same 3 days. The Greeks would use the position at Artemisium to their advantage and look to nullify the Persian’s superiority in numbers. They would also employ cleaver tactics to avoid a decisive action, while the “gods” would also provide some assistance.
The final day at Artemisium would see the Persians attempt to force a full-scale engagement. Both sides would suffer in the action with the Persian fleet receiving the worst of it. The Greeks though, decided they would need to withdraw as they could ill afford the losses taken, the Persians could sustain a battle of attrition. News had also arrived that the Greek position at Thermopylae had fallen. The position had also now become irrelevant, the march into central Greece was now open.
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In 2006 the movie 300 hit the screens of cinemas across the world depicting a battle that took place nearly 2500 years ago. Though, more accurately it depicts a group of 300 warrior’s involvement in that battle. For most, this would be their first and only exposure to Greek history, leaving them to either take on face value what they saw as basically fact, as it was based on actual events after all. Or, they would assume this was a fictional story with a historical theme, this is Hollywood.
I explore the main storyline with all of the themes present, where the smaller details can be brought up with more context behind them. I want to be able to show what the film manages to present fairly accurately historically. Or alternatively has presented in its own interpretation with examples in the historical record that can be pointed to. I will also point out some of the fanciful elements and what appears to be inserted for dramatic purposes, but not based on anything from the historical record.
Ultimately, I hope after this episode people can walk away with a better understand of what has been presented and that can be connected to the ancient sources, therefore in line with the historical record. While also recognising what liberties have been made and perhaps why these things are presented or told the way they are. We are not looking to much at what was historical fact but what exists in the historical record that could be drawn upon which will also let us see how the Greeks saw their own history.
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The Greeks had now arrived at the pass of Thermopylae, in all there were some seven thousand Greeks present. They were led by the Spartan King Leonidas at the head of his three hundred strong Spartan force. Their position would be further supported by the combined Greek fleet some 40km away at Artemisium.
Defensive arrangements in the pass were undertaken as Xerxes forces drew closer outside the pass. It was also learnt that a small track in the mountains posed a threat to the Greek position down below in the pass. A sizable force would be detached from the main force and sent up into the mountains to guard this route.
Xerxes would attempt to convince the Greeks to surrender their position, but after four days sitting by idle he would launch the beginning of the battle of Thermopylae. No matter the quality of the troops Xerxes sent against the Greek position they failed to dislodge them from the pass. Even his most vaunted Immortals fared no better than those who went in before them.
Finally the nightmare, Ephalities would inform Xerxes of the existence of the trail in the mountains, betraying the Greek position. Now instead of having to meet the Greeks head on in the narrow pass, his troops could now surround them. Knowing their fate the remaining Greeks fought till the end with a shower of arrows finishing off the resistance in the pass. The final act of the battle seeing the Spartan solider Dienekes’ response realised, “Good, we shall fight in the shade then”
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With Xerxes arranging the full resources of the Persian empire in an invasion against Greece, word would have filtered back to Greece of the preparations. The Greeks would not sit by idle but would now attempt to take measures to see a halt be put to the Persian advance. This time around it wouldn’t just be Athens and Plataeans meeting the Persians on the field of battle.
In the years between Marathon and Xerxes invasion, politics had been continuing in Athens. The new public figure to have risen, Themistocles would see that a policy shifting Athens to a naval power would emerge. This would have huge impact on the coming war and also well into the future.
To have any hope against the force assembled by Xerxes, the Greeks would need to unite in a common cause. This would prove to be a difficult task in a land dominated by fiercely independent city states with their own interests.
A league would be formed, though with only a fraction of the thousands of city states that dotted the Greek main land and Aegean. This would become to known as the Hellenic league and cooperation within it would rest upon a razors edge. Finally, the league would meet the second Persian invasion for the first time at the pass of Thermopylae and the straights of Artemisium.
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The Athenians and their Plataean allies had effectively put an end to the first Persian invasion at the Bay of Marathon in 490 BC. Athens would continue to emerge as a powerful city state with their confidence after their victory. The Hero of Marathon, Miltiades would fall from favour with a new figure coming to dominate the political landscape for a number of years to come.
Back in the Persian Empire the defeat at Marathon would not be a disaster but would still be an annoyance to Darius. Though, before further action could be taken against the Greeks Persia had problems within their own Empire that had to be resolved, with two important regions attempting to revolt, Egypt and Babylon.
Once the empire had been stabilised preparations began to attempt a second invasion of Greece. A new king would lead this invasion as Darius had died of an illness before he could see the plans through. Xerxes was Darius’ son and would lead the forces against Greece unlike his father who had remained in Persia during the first invasion.
The army Xerxes assembled was larger than anything that had come before it in the ancient world. This time around there would be no doubt that the conquest of Greece was the main objective. Great feats of engineering would also be undertaken to assist in the march of this colossal force. To put a stop to the invasion this time around the fiercely independent Greek city states would need to unite against this common enemy.
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The Persian forces had landed at Marathon Bay unopposed and had set up camp. The Athenians and Plataeans had now arrived at Marathon to challenge the Persians invasion. A stand off had ensured with both sides not taking the initiative, the Athenians debating wether to even fight at the Bay.
Eventually, Miltiades would convince his fellow Athenian commanders to give battle. With a rousing speech that would bring Callimachus round to the merits in his arguments. The Greeks were outnumbered and made arrangement to match the Persian line. This though, would provide a weak point for the Persians to exploit.
The Greek phalanxes crashed all along the Persian line, engaging in a manner, we are told, like never before, cover the distance at a run. It is still debated today what caused the Greeks to all of a sudden to act this day. The Persians would exploit the weak point in the Greek line but this early success would turn out to be a disaster. The Persians now were in a panic making their way back to their ships with the Greeks in toe, the carnage on the shore line would have been horrific.
Tradition would have it that news of the Persian rout would make its back to Athens by the first Marathon run by Pheidippides. The Persian were able to embark the survivors of the battle and now made their way to attempt a direct attack on Athens. Though as they came into view, they could see the Athenian force prepared to give battle once again. They had travelled back to Athens from Marathon bay well aware the acropolis had been left undefended. This would effectively see the end of the first Persian Invasion, but the Persians would be back.
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With the region of Ionian in the Persian Empire back under control, Darius could now turn to other business. He had reportedly, after learning of the Athenian involvement in the revolt, had one of his servants repeat to him three times “Master, remember the Athenians” whenever he sat down to a meal. Remember the Athenians, and the others who had also dared assist the Ionians, he would.
An initial campaign was sent north into Thrace which also had a navy shadowing the land forces as they marched following the coast line. This campaign would ultimately run into disastrous problems causing the commander to return into the empire. The naval force would be destroyed, not by the Greeks but by a storm that whipped up as the fleet rounded the notorious Mt Athos. While, the land forces would encounter unexpected resistance from the Thracians who would also wound the Persian commander, Mardonious.
The second campaign would see a fleet assembled which would transport the Persian land forces across the Aegean in what would amount to an Island-hopping campaign. Along the way Persian policy towards those willing to submit and those who would resist were on full display, acting as an example to those yet to encounter the armada.
Accompanying the Persian fleet was the old exiled Tyrant of Athens, Hippias with the expectation that he would be re-established as the leader in Athens, answerable to Darius of course. Before landing in Attica the Persians first laid waste to another polis who had accompanied Athens during the revolt, Eretria. Once revenge had been taken against them the fleet now made its way to a bay along the Attic coast known as Marathon Bay.
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We now arrive on the eve of the Greek and Persian wars. The Greek colonies of Ionian had traded one ruler for another and were now part of the Persian Empire. Their lack of freedom and rising taxes would see discontent grow. With some help from ambitious leaders, Ionia and surrounding regions would rise up in revolt.
The Ionians would seek help from their cousins back on the Greek mainland to assist in their plight. Only two city states, Athens and Eretria would answer the call with limited help, but it was enough for Darius to shift his gaze west.
The ultimate goal of the rebels was to march onto Susa, one of the Persian capitals. But the campaign would be short lived with the Greek force being foiled at the first major city. Sardis. The Persian forces were able to force the battle of Ephesus and the Greeks were routed, with the Athenians and Eritreans returning home and taking no more part in the revolt.
The Persians now began systematically re subjugating the various regions along the Anatolian coast line in a series of campaigns lasting another 4 years. Eventually the revolt would be effectively defeated at the naval battle of Lade. Now though, with the prelude to the Greek and Persian wars over the Persian Empire would now begin preparations to move against the lands of Greece.
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The Casting Through Ancient Greece podcast is now moving into the Greek and Persian war period. We have spent the past 13 episodes looking at how things were developing in Greece that will help give us a better understanding of the periods moving forward.
This episode I talk about my experiences since starting the podcast, as well as the support I have received from other podcasts out there.
We spend the first part of the show going back and summarising the topics and themes we have spoken about over the past 13 episodes. Going all the way back to the first signs of human habitation in the Greece, all the way through to the last series of episodes where we looked at the development of 3 of our major players moving forward. Hopefully this helps with refreshing everyone’s memory of everything covered so far.
The last part of the episode I spend answering questions sent in by listeners ranging from topical questions to general show questions.
Stay tuned as we now move into the Greek and Persian wars.
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With the founder, Cyrus the Great of the Persian Empire now dead, power transitioned to his son Cambyses. The transition was relatively smooth and the empire remained stable and it was business as usual. Cambyses would lead a campaign and conquer Egypt but this is where his rule took a turn for the worse and the crisis shook the Persian court.
Cambyses reputation in the historical record suffered at the hands of the Egyptian priestly cast, who he was not popular with. Reports of an attempted coup from his brother or a conspiracy from the Magi, the Persian Priests, work their way into the account. Though, Cambyses would die on his way home when attempting to deal with the crisis.
Power now lay with a pretender and would so for the next seven months. Another conspiracy now developed with a band of nobles who sought to bring the Empire back under the rightful ruling line. The nobles would over throw the Magi controlling power leaving the job of ruling the empire coming down to one of them. Darius would be successful in being elevated to the title of King of Persia and was at pains to show his connection to the old ruling line.
Stability would return to the Empire after Darius dealt with the revoting regions of the empire. Once having full control of power Darius continue with the business of empire and expanded the territories even more. It would be in his rule that the Greek and Persian worlds would directly collide with the onset of the Greo-Persian wars, the Ionian revolt lighting the spark.
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Now that we have seen the development of Sparta and Athens, two of our main players for the upcoming Greco-Persian Wars period, we need to look at a third. This time it is not a Greek city state, but an empire east across the Aegean Sea. This was the Persian Empire and would come to influence Greek affairs for centuries to come.
The main empire the Greeks had contact with in the Near East during the Achcahic period was that of the Lydian Empire who controlled most of Anatolia. In the late 6th century, the Lydian’s had brought the Ionian Greek cities dotted all along the Anatolian coast into their control. Though, as powerful and wealthy as the Lydians were a great threat appeared on their eastern boarder.
This threat was in the shape of the new power of Persia, who only a handful of years earlier was one of a number of Iranian groups occupying the Zagros Mountains. Events around them would see this relatively small group of peoples coming to dominate their region, before then expanding and creating the Persian Empire, which Lydia would become apart of.
The founder of the Persian empire would become to be known as Cyrus the Great and like most founders there were traditional tales to explain his background and rise to greatness. In just his life time Cyrus would go onto create the largest empire the world had yet known, bringing the Greek world into direct contact with them.
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Reforms had been but in place now from some important figures such as Draco and Solon. Though, they would not be enough to see democracy emerge and take hold just yet. The political front in Athens at this stage was looking very unstable with periods of anarchy, almost leading to civil war breaking out. This would see the type of leader emerge that had threatened to earlier, the tyrant.
Factions were now forming around the geographical areas of Attica which fell roughly in line with the different demographics of the regions. From one of these factions emerged a leader who would become the first successful tyrant to take power in Athens. Though, it would take three attempts to successfully remain in power. Peisistratus would be Athens’ first tyrant, but not in a despotic sense, his rule would be seen move favourable than the previous leaders.
Once Peisistratus’ rule came to a natural end, his sons would take control seamlessly continuing the tyranny. After a long period of stability in Athens, assassination would see the tyranny take on a darker side. The surviving son, Hippias would become the despotic ruler we all now associate with the word tyrant today. Eventually Hippias would be removed with some outside help from Sparta.
Faction fighting would continue to plague Athens, though another leader, Cleisthenes would emerge. Under his leadership Athens would see many institutions and ideas further evolve and develop that would at the heart of a democratic system. Democracy as a political system was now rising in Athens.
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What started out as a small settlement atop a rocky outcrop over 5000 years ago would develop into the most recognisable symbol of democracy and culture. Athens would Survive relatively intact after the Bronze Age collapse, events during the Dark and Archaic Age setting them on a trajectory towards democracy. Some early figures such as Draco and Solon would be looked back to as founding many of the changes leading to this new innovation of politics in Athens.
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The Institutions that would develop in Sparta are what made this Greek city state standout, even in modern times. Their interactions with their neighbours would help drive how these systems would take shape. Leading to one of the most militarised cities within Greece, the ancients not only fascinated by them but some even admiring them.
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Developing and coming out of the Dark Ages, would be one of the most recognisable city states. Sparta would come into existence from the union of surrounding villages and the conquering of nearby regions. What would develop there, would be a unique social and political system, far different to the rest of the Greek world.
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The Greek world now emerges out of the shadows of the dark ages, with the region experiencing a re-birth. What comes into being will be different to the ages that came before, although their memory would not be forgotten. Society will develop with new advances that will continue to be refined for centuries to come.
Episode correction
I give the foundation of the Olympics as 778 BC, though the traditional date given is 776 BC (This is what I had my script, so not sure where the 778 came from)
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The collapse of the Bronze Age world saw darkness descend onto the Greek world. The great palaces of the Mycenaeans lay in ruins. A period of regression and depopulation makes itself known in the Archaeological record. Though, over time progress can also be seen, which would lead the Greek world out of this period and back into the light.
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This time around the Myceneans would disappear into history with the rest of the Bronze Age world. This collapse would not only affect the Myceneans but also the rest of the Bronze Age world around the Mediterranean. Many reasons can be found to try an explain this sudden fall of civilisations but none can explain why this collapse took place on their own.
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In this episode we will look at our second Bronze Age Civilisation, the Mycenaeans. They would supplant the Minoans in the Aegean to become the dominant civilisation, there and on the Greek mainland. Many of the Greek stories in Mythology and epic poetry can be seen to look back into the period of time the Mycenaeans occupied.
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This episode deals with our first Bronze Age civilisation, the Minoans, who are recognised as one of the earliest to develop in the Aegean and Europe. Centred on Crete they would endure and recover from a number of natural disasters before fading into history as another civilisation was rising.
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In this episode we will be looking at the beginning of the Bronze age in Greece, as well as the rediscovery of two civilisations from this time. Bronze, as well as other developments would see communities develop into more complex societies. Two great civilisations would rise and occupy this period in the Aegean which would be re-discovered only in modern times allowing us to link the past with the tales told by the ancient poets.
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This is where we set the stage for our story of Ancient Greece. We look at the land of Greece and what seems to have been taking place there in the pre-history. We look at migrations of humans and the ideas and technology that that developed over time. We then finish off looking at one of the most common ways items were dated when looking this far back.
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An Introduction to the series, Casting through Ancient Greece, looking at my motivations, the topic of Ancient Greece and the structure of the series. We also look at the different types of sources and go into a little more detail on some of the ancient authors.
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