The Ancients: The Persian Wars – Xerxes, Thermopylae, and Salamis

Episode Release Date: February 27, 2025
Hosted by Tristan Hughes
Guests: Dr. Roald Koninadijk (Oxford University) and Professor Lloyd Llewelyn Jones (Cardiff University)

Introduction

In this gripping episode of The Ancients, host Tristan Hughes delves deep into the Second Persian Invasion of Greece, focusing on the monumental figures and battles of Xerxes, Thermopylae, and Salamis. Joined by esteemed historians Dr. Roald Koninadijk and Professor Lloyd Llewelyn Jones, the discussion unpacks the complexities of Xerxes’ campaign, the strategic genius of Greek resistance, and the enduring legacy of these ancient conflicts.

Xerxes’ Ascension and Motivations

Context of Xerxes’ Rise (00:00 - 05:28)

The episode begins with an exploration of Xerxes’ ascent to the Persian throne in 486 BC, highlighting the absence of primogeniture in Persia, which often led to dynastic struggles. Dr. Roald Koninadijk emphasizes Xerxes’ lineage, stating, “He had the blood of Cyrus the Great and of his father Darius in his veins” (04:24), which bolstered his claim and ambition to expand the empire.

Xerxes’ Early Campaigns (03:08 - 05:28)

Shortly after ascending the throne, Xerxes swiftly quells a rebellion in Egypt, demonstrating his military prowess and setting the stage for his westward ambitions. Koninadijk notes, “Xerxes is already up for a fight” (04:24), reflecting his relentless drive to assert dominance.

Persian Influence on Greek Culture

Cultural Exchange and Persianisms (07:14 - 12:53)

Professor Lloyd Llewelyn Jones sheds light on the nuanced interactions between Persia and the Greek city-states. Despite impending conflict, Persian cultural elements permeated Athenian society. Koninadijk adds, “Elite Athenians were collecting Persian goods,” (12:53) illustrating the complex relationship beyond mere hostility.

Perceptions of Persians in Greek Society

The presence of Persian coinage in Athens and the adoption of Persian-style tableware underscore a deep-seated cultural exchange. This blending of cultures adds layers to the subsequent military confrontations, highlighting that the conflict was not purely ideological but also deeply intertwined with existing cultural interactions.

The Greek Response and Naval Expansion

Athenian Naval Growth (07:04 - 10:28)

Following the initial Persian defeat at Marathon, Athens harnesses newfound wealth from silver mines to expand its naval fleet. Professor Jones explains, “Themistocles convinces the assembly to invest it in building more ships” (07:04), leading to the construction of up to 200 triremes (10:28). This strategic investment positions Athens as a formidable naval power, crucial for resisting Persian dominance.

Logistical Challenges of Persian Mobilization (20:03 - 21:34)

Dr. Koninadijk discusses the immense logistical feats undertaken by Xerxes to amass a vast army from across the sprawling Persian Empire. The coordination required highlights the scale and ambition of the invasion, though he suggests that Herodotus’ accounts may exaggerate the diversity and size of the Persian forces (04:24, 21:34).

Thermopylae: The Stand of Leonidas

Setting the Stage for Thermopylae (31:03 - 37:35)

As Xerxes marches westward into Greece, many northern Greek city-states, including Macedon and Thebes, display minimal resistance or actively support the Persians. Koninadijk points out, “They didn't meet much resistance, to be honest” (35:37), revealing the fragmented Greek response.

The Defiance at Thermopylae (37:16 - 54:58)

The Spartans, led by King Leonidas, and a small contingent of allies make a heroic stand at Thermopylae. Professor Jones details the strategic importance of the narrow pass, stating, “Thermopylae... is where you stop an army moving south into Greece” (41:04). Despite being vastly outnumbered, Leonidas and his forces hold the pass for several days (43:18), embodying Spartan valor and tactical brilliance.

Notable Quotes:

• Leonidas’ unwavering commitment: “I was told to defend the pass of Thermopylae, I’m just going to do it” (52:45).
• Herodotus on Persian strategy: “We should expect that the Athenians will crush us if we don’t crush them first” (17:52).

The Betrayal of Ephialtes (35:37 - 57:59)

The betrayal by Ephialtes, who reveals a hidden path around Thermopylae, is examined critically. Koninadijk argues that Herodotus may have exaggerated Ephialtes’ role for narrative purposes, stating, “There's always been a question of why did they send so few troops?” (45:37). This act, whether factual or embellished, serves to illustrate the complexities and internal conflicts within both Greek and Persian ranks.

The Battle of Salamis: A Naval Masterstroke

Strategic Importance of Salamis (62:16 - 75:35)

Following the sack of Athens, the Greek fleet retreats to Salamis, setting the stage for a decisive naval confrontation. Professor Jones explains, “Salamis... was where you draw them into a narrow strait” (45:37), neutralizing the Persians’ numerical advantage.

The Naval Tactics and Outcome (63:38 - 66:10)

The Battle of Salamis is portrayed as a chaotic yet strategically pivotal encounter. Themistocles’ cunning strategy to lure the Persian fleet into the narrow straits disrupts their formation and overwhelms them. Dr. Koninadijk highlights Herodotus’ likely embellishments, suggesting that the real battle was less about sheer numbers and more about tactical superiority (66:10).

Notable Quotes:

• Themistocles on naval strategy: “We trick the Persians into accepting that fight” (65:30).
• Koninadijk on Herodotus’ narratives: “It's too much of a coincidence that the whole ruse is built on a lie” (67:01).

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Salamis in Athenian Identity (57:10 - 75:35)

The victory at Salamis solidifies Athens’ naval dominance and fosters a sense of imperial identity. Professor Jones asserts, “From that point onwards, they are increasingly able to push the advantage” (75:35), laying the groundwork for the Athenian Empire’s rise.

Cultural Reflections through Literature (60:03 - 75:17)

The episode also touches on the portrayal of these battles in contemporary Greek literature, notably Aeschylus’ Persians. This tragedy humanizes both sides and underscores the futility of war, contrasting sharply with later glorified narratives.

Notable Quotes:

• Commentary on Aeschylus: “Orientalism starts with Aeschylus in Persians” (75:17).
• Koninadijk on cultural integration: “They would have understood its value” (61:22).

Conclusion and Teaser for Next Episode

As Salamis marks a turning point in the Second Persian Invasion, Xerxes begins to withdraw amidst internal rebellions in Babylon. However, the conflict's resolution is not yet complete. Tristan Hughes hints at future discussions on the Battle of Plataea and the final stages of the Persian Wars, promising listeners an in-depth exploration of these concluding chapters.

Final Remarks:

Guests Dr. Roald Koninadijk and Professor Lloyd Llewelyn Jones commend each other’s insights, reaffirming the episode’s comprehensive analysis of the Persian Wars. They also promote their respective works, encouraging listeners to further explore the intricate histories of these ancient conflicts.

Key Takeaways

• Xerxes’ Ambition: Driven by lineage and imperial ambition, Xerxes orchestrates the largest invasion of Greece, leveraging vast resources from his expansive empire.

• Cultural Interactions: Despite impending conflict, Persian culture significantly influenced Greek society, particularly Athens, through trade and adoption of Persian goods.

• Strategic Battles: The heroic stand at Thermopylae and the masterful naval tactics at Salamis exemplify the strategic depth of both Persian and Greek forces.

• Legacy of Resistance: These battles not only shaped the course of the Persian Wars but also cemented the cultural and political identity of Athens as a maritime powerhouse.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dr. Roald Koninadijk (04:24): "Xerxes is already up for a fight.”

• Professor Lloyd Llewelyn Jones (07:04): "Themistocles convinces the assembly to invest it in building more ships.”

• Prof. Jones (35:37): "They didn't meet much resistance, to be honest.”

• Prof. Jones (41:04): "Thermopylae... is where you stop an army moving south into Greece.”

• Professor Jones (75:35): "From that point onwards, they are increasingly able to push the advantage.”

• Dr. Roald Koninadijk (67:01): “It's too much of a coincidence that the whole ruse is built on a lie.”

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Stay tuned for the next episode, where we will unravel the final chapters of the Persian invasion with the Battle of Plataea and beyond.