Name/Title
The Anabasis, or Expedition of Cyrus and the Memorabilia of Socrates, Literally Translated From the Greek of Xenophon... With a Geographical CommentarySecondary Title
Geographical Commentary by W. F. Ainsworth, esq.Description
According to Perplexity: "Xenophon’s Anabasis is a firsthand account of the expedition of about 10,000 Greek mercenaries who supported Cyrus the Younger’s failed attempt to seize the Persian throne from his brother, Artaxerxes II, in 401 BCE
After Cyrus was killed at the Battle of Cunaxa, the Greeks found themselves stranded deep in hostile territory and were forced to fight their way north over harsh terrain to reach the Black Sea and safety.
Key facts and themes about the Anabasis:
Historical context: The journey took place after the Peloponnesian War, at a time when Greek and Persian alliances were shifting, and the presence of Greek soldiers in Persia reflected the complex interplay between the powers of the era.
Authorship: Xenophon, an Athenian soldier, philosopher, and student of Socrates, participated in the expedition and became one of its generals after many leaders were killed or captured. He wrote the account in the third person, providing detailed military and cultural observations.
Major themes:
1) Leadership: Xenophon analyzes and demonstrates the qualities needed for effective leadership under crisis, such as clear decision-making, courage, and the ability to inspire unity.
2) Survival and resilience: The work is renowned for its depiction of endurance against immense odds, providing vivid portraits of ancient military life and tactics.
3) Greek and Persian relations: The narrative explores cultural interactions, highlighting both admiration and antagonism between Greeks and Persians.
The Anabasis is both a historical text and a work that influenced later literature on leadership, adventure, and warfare. It is considered one of the earliest and most important examples of military autobiography and has been widely studied for its insights into Greek warfare, politics, and the lived experience of soldiers in the ancient world."Collection
Miscellaneous Non-FraternalCataloged By
A.T. KornblumCategory
Non-Masonic Literature
Classic Literature
Dimensions
Height
7-1/2 inWidth
5 inDepth
2 inBook Details
Author
XenophonPublication Translator
J. S. WatsonPublisher
Bell & DaldyDate Published
1867Printer
W. Clowes and SonsDate Printed
1867Publication Language
EnglishPublication Subjects
Greece - History ; Antiquity ; Military expeditionsNotes
About the expedition and retreat of Greek mercenaries after the failed attempt of Cyrus the Younger to seize the Persian throne.Location
* Untyped Location
Librarian's Office, Bookcase 3, Shelf 1 [Librarian's Office]Provenance
Notes
Library of Masonic Cathedral Association, Oakland, S.R. Bodies, Purchased January 1923Update Date
September 11, 2025