Awesome you released this. Hope full video of 1st punic war and other videos only for members to watch will get released for everyone to watch. Thank you.
In the Anabasis, Xenophon wrote an account of how during their flight from the pursuing Persian army, he and the Ten Thousand stumbled upon the ruins of a civilization that were more ancient than even themselves. Among them were two cities that were larger than any he had seen in Greece. These included large crumbling structures that looked like mighty monuments of a bygone age, yet now completely abandoned and left to the mercy of the elements. The sight of these enigmatic ruins had a profound effect on Xenophon, and for days afterwards he would ask any of the locals he came across for information on who had built such grand and impressive cities. Unfortunately for him, nobody that he encountered on the way out of the Persian Empire were able to tell him who built those now abandoned cities, or even tell him their names. For they were as much of a mystery to the locals as they were to someone like Xenophon who was passing by. It was only millennia later that historians found out these were the cities of Nimrud and Ninevah, and they belonged to the once mighty Assyrian Empire. It is believed that Xenophon was the earliest person to stumble upon them and write an account at the end of the 5th century BCE.
@@komododragon410 Sort of. Nineveh has been reconstructed and Nimrud is very well-excavated. It should be noted that Nineveh was actually continually occupied - technically - as there was always either a town or village in and around its ruins.
Xenophon is really underrated. Sure, we can assume bias in his own writings, and it’s improper to credit the success of the retreat to just him. However, the bare-bone fact that he’s one of the commanders that managed to lead a diverse and squabbling Greek army back home from the Persian heartland (which I assume is the minimal agreeable account) already make him incredible. It’s relatively easy to fight and conquer one land after another when you have everything, but I suspect not every top-tier commanders throughout history can survive when thrown to a situation like Xenophon was in.
Also, Xenophon was 29 years old or so. Imagine that. Of course as an Athenian aristocrat of his time was already well educated, physically exercised, and well trained in military tactics.
Conquering and surviving against the odds takes different skills. In strategy games I'm solid at winning but when the odds are stacked against me I am excellent at delaying defeat.
Watch the 1979 film "The Warriors". It's based on the 1965 novel of the same name by Sol Yurick which, in turn, is based on Anabasis. Instead of Greek warriors, it used street gangs in 1970s New York City. It's one of my favorite films.
In 1190 AD, Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, when during one of his campaigns against the Seljuks, he had to return through enemy terrain, he followed Xenophon's tactics, and during the following Battle of Philomelion, Alexios arrayed his troops, in a formation, known as "parataxis", also inspired by Xenophon, and won the battle against the Seljuks.
In all fairness, the film 300 was based on a comic book that recounted the ancient event in a fictional narrative, which in turn was based on the eponymous film of the 60s. For other ancient Greek-based events, if there is no origin comic book story or 50s-70s film, expect less of a theatrical movie masterpiece and expect more of a television series, if they adapted those kind of events.
Because under modern Western historiography they would be considered national traitors, not heroes. The whole Anabasis happened AFTER the Persian invasion of Greece. Of course, back then the definition of nation-states didn't exist yet, but modern audiences would have a hard time accepting them as hero characters in a movie.
The movie "Warriors (1979)" was inspired by this ancient Greek story. Even though instead of hostile tribes in Asia the enemies were other gangs in 1970s New York City.
What a profound appreciation for classical literature! Xenophon's "Anabasis" is indeed a masterpiece of leadership and adventure, capturing the spirit of perseverance. Pairing it with Homer's epic tales of heroism and human nature in the "Iliad" and "Odyssey" forms an unparalleled trio that truly encapsulates the essence of greatness in ancient storytelling. Your love for these works speaks to a deep understanding of the timeless lessons they offer.
@@StMiBll Hello friend.I just want to remind,Xenophon's story is history.Homer's work (8-7th century b.c.e.,) is poetry based upon a true fact,the Trojan war.(11th century b.c.e.) Thanks a lot. Konstantinou Apostolos. Thessaloniki/Macedonia/HELLAS
In the Anabasis, there's a part where xenophon is using a horse to help him command troops. He orders the men to hurry up a hill. A soldier calls out, mockingly, and says Xenophon doesn't have a shield, and is riding a horse, so its easy for him. Xenophon, according to his own writings, got off his horse, ran over to the soldier, shoved him down, took his shield and ran up the hill. Also, Xebophon wrote a book about horsemanship and it has tips on riding and caring for horses. Along with tips on how to flex and show off while on horse back.
What stands out is the sheer determination, resilience, and leadership demonstrated during this journey. Xenophon, initially a soldier, emerged as a key leader after the original Greek commanders were treacherously killed by the Persians. The army had to march over 1,500 miles from the heart of the Persian Empire back to the safety of the Greek cities, all while being pursued and harassed by enemy forces, navigating hostile terrain, and facing severe shortages of food and supplies. The Anabasis is not just a military adventure but also a story of survival against overwhelming odds. Xenophon’s narrative illustrates the importance of leadership, morale, and the capacity of soldiers to endure extreme hardship. This epic journey, often regarded as a defining moment in Greek military history, later inspired the legendary campaigns of figures like Alexander the Great.
“Anabasis” was also chosen by the Emperor and Malcador for the final teleportation onto Horus’ battle barge in the siege of Terra. Because of this story
@@mattstakeontheancients7594 that’s very well possible, I am just referring to the final operation where The Emperor, Sanguinius, Rogal Dorn and Valdor and their contingents teleport onto the Vengeful Spirit
🎥This video was previously only available to our patrons and youtube members. Check out our series on the Fall of Sparta, Sulla and Persian Wars on RUclips ruclips.net/channel/UCMmaBzfCCwZ2KqaBJjkj0fwjoin or patreon: www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals
Watch the 1979 film The Warriors. It's based on Sol Yurick's 1965 novel of the same name, which, in turn, is based on Anabasis. Instead of Greek warriors, it uses street gangs in 1970s New York City. It's one of my favorite films.
A great thank you to the makers of the video, for mentioning one of our most important national poets, Konstantinos Kavafis, whose "Ithaka" is a great philosophical poem. And a thank you for telling this story, which was very analytic and well-written. I urge the people who see this to actually try reading Xenophon's book themselves, and they will not be disappointed.
@@ΑπόστολοςΚωνσταντίνου-δ2τ Read about the Czechoslovak Legion that got stranded in Siberia during the russian civil war, and fought their way to the pacific. Name Surname. Dont Care/Dont Care/DONT CARE
He's here! He's finally here, my boy! My boy Xenophon! God damn, I am so excited, this has been a favourite story of mine for years. It needs a film or TV show or something.
I think its important to stress that “biased” doesn’t necessarily mean “incorrect”. just that it comes from a certain mouth so you should not assume its objectively correct either. Its something to take with a pinch of salt. Still a useful resource, just one to take with a critical eye.
No there are some incorrect assumptions that Xenophon made in his Anabasis. He thought that Persian resistance would be nonexistent, but Alexander's campaigns prove how difficult it was conquering Persia. Had there been more effective leadership from the Persians, things could have gone differently.
To us Greeks this is likely a common knowledge. "Κυρου Αναβασις" or "Καθοδος των Μυρίων" is a story that shows beyond everything the resilience of those men to return home safely.. Fighting their way through enemy and unknown lands till they reach friendly land and the sea shore of Euxinus Pontus. Yes Xenophon describes this adventurous journey in some bias way as he was one of the protagonists of this. Thus, his way of narrowing the events was (and still is ) quite close to the greek spirit of living and live to tell an adventurous circumstances line of events.. :)) And yes they did had souvlaki when ever their gains of provisions allowed them to have :)) by the way i dont think that there is an army that managed to repeat such a march through such a large enemy territory without any certain help guidance or provisions. Not even Alexander did that.. θαλαττα! Θαλατα!!
My favorite part of Anabasis is when they stumble upon the ruins of an ancient city that neither they nor any locals seemingly knew anything about. And it turned out to be (I think) the capital city of the Assyrian Empire. Fascinating to think that the Assyrians were about as far removed from the ancient Greeks as we are from them but in the other direction of time.
Finally a proper video abt it on the Internet!! Fantastic🎉 The greatest feat of endurance ever, forever motivating us and many other generations to never give up!
Lol total war ammunition is so dumb. But it is a game and for it's time, was incredible. Too bad they fell off with their games. A proper bronze age total war would be epic. Also another medieval one would be dope. I still play attila lol
@@KingsandGenerals I don't know why she chose Anabasis as her taste was sci-fi, murder mysteries, and westerns. She never did it before nor again. But I loved it. I still recall the description of mountain archers holding bows with their feet and drawing with both hands. I would pester her to read to me but after a while, I just started reading for myself. Love history. My wife gained a love of history as well from listening to me describe historical events. I brought history to life for her, unlike her previous experience.
22:06 I can't believe they actually used the Total War strat of sending one shit-tier unit to the enemy's wall, running back and forth, dodging arrows, until the enemy's archers run out of ammo
Alexander didn't convince all of Greece to invade Persia, cause most Greeks didn't want Macedonian hegemony. He forced Greece to cooperate with him. Overall it was a Macedonian invasion with PR for the Greeks.
These books are truly epic. Arrian of Nicomedia, the Greek General and Historian, was greatly inspired by Xenophon’s Anabasis a few centuries later. He also wrote “The Anabasis of Alexander”, an account on Alexander’s the Great legendary campaigns to the east…
Just a small correction, a "mediser" (μηδισε) isn't a culturally compromised Persia-Lover. It's someone who betrayed his greek brethren to fight with the Persians. Source: I'm Greek and it's a common phrase to say someone is a traitor.
@@danielseelye6005It still holds the same meaning despite being a rather academic term. “Μήδισε” still means switching sides and joining the enemy with the nuance of a monetary incentive
One of the most beautifully made documentaries. The art work is just amazing, the narrative perfect as always and an epic journey making you feel you are there. Can’t wait for the next chapter.
Amazing video. Well done from Greece my friend. And honestly, I didn't know that ancient Greeks were eating pita gyro and suvlaki with herbs. 😁😁😁😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣
The March Up Country (Anabasis) by Xenophon is a great book to read if you enjoyed The History of the Peloponnesian War by Thucydides. They use a very similar approach for presenting history.
My name is Xenophon (named after my grandfather), and this suggestion video popped up! This name still exists in Greece, although not very common. My grandparents were Greeks that originated from Euxinos Pontos (or the Black Sea), where the troops shouted "thalatta-thalatta" at the view of the sea. You can guess the rest!
Xenophon is legitimately one of the greatest individuals of mankind's history and I would be willing to bet not even half our populace knows who he is.
Watch the 1979 film The Warriors. It's based on Sol Yurick's 1965 novel of the same name, which, in turn, is based on Anabasis. Instead of Greek warriors, it uses street gangs in 1970s New York City. It's one of my favorite films.
It strikes me the oracle and olympians were the ancient equivalent of managment consultants - got a difficult decision you want to justify.... call them :-)!
It could be a hollywood movie for sure and i am wondering why it is not until now. I knew this part of story ofcourse cause i am greek and it still impresses me.
Watch the 1979 film The Warriors. It's based on Sol Yurick's 1965 novel of the same name, which, in turn, is based on Anabasis. Instead of Greek warriors, it uses street gangs in 1970s New York City. It's one of my favorite films.
@shaider1982 fun fact: for the basic outline and for specific battle locales, Coyle used Gen. Sir John Hackett's "The Third World War: August 1985" credited, of course, as a reference.
It's very interesting how many greek military figures tried to start a war campaign against the Persians and finally Alexander succeeded. It would be a very nice video as well!
The story of the Persian poet Attar's "The Conference of the Birds" and Xenophon's "Anabasis" actually have an interesting similarity. The Conference of the Birds is the story of 30 birds who are looking for a leader for themselves, and together they decide to find Simorgh as their king (Simorgh is a legendary Iranian bird, which in English means thirty birds). And from there, the adventure begins and they start traveling and looking for Simorgh. Just like Xenophon's Anabasis and the Greek mercenaries who looking for Cyrus the younger for becoming king and then their story begins. We are the birds in the story. All of us have our own ideas and ideals, our own fears and anxieties, as we hold on to our own version of the truth. Like the birds of this story, we may take flight together, but the journey itself will be different for each of us. Attar tells us that truth is not static, and that we each tread a path according to our own capacity!!!! Amazing!!!!
Kind of a coincidence for me as I had never heard of Persian myth until I started playing Prince of Persia: the Lost Crown recently which tells of Simorgh and Anahita mentioned in this video.
@@jimralston4789 There are many Persian legends that are less known in the West. If you are interested, I will write you 5 examples of them: 1). Arash the Archer 2). Rostam and Sohrab 3).Siyâvash 4). Rostam and Esfandiyār 5). Zāl If you want to know more, refer to the book of "Shahnameh" there are more than 200 stories.
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Awesome you released this. Hope full video of 1st punic war and other videos only for members to watch will get released for everyone to watch. Thank you.
Taochians were Georgian tribes
A musterprice !
Kings & Generals, can you cover The Battle of Ridgeway , Fenian Invasion ?
In the Anabasis, Xenophon wrote an account of how during their flight from the pursuing Persian army, he and the Ten Thousand stumbled upon the ruins of a civilization that were more ancient than even themselves. Among them were two cities that were larger than any he had seen in Greece. These included large crumbling structures that looked like mighty monuments of a bygone age, yet now completely abandoned and left to the mercy of the elements. The sight of these enigmatic ruins had a profound effect on Xenophon, and for days afterwards he would ask any of the locals he came across for information on who had built such grand and impressive cities. Unfortunately for him, nobody that he encountered on the way out of the Persian Empire were able to tell him who built those now abandoned cities, or even tell him their names. For they were as much of a mystery to the locals as they were to someone like Xenophon who was passing by. It was only millennia later that historians found out these were the cities of Nimrud and Ninevah, and they belonged to the once mighty Assyrian Empire. It is believed that Xenophon was the earliest person to stumble upon them and write an account at the end of the 5th century BCE.
Do they still stand?
@@komododragon410 Sort of. Nineveh has been reconstructed and Nimrud is very well-excavated. It should be noted that Nineveh was actually continually occupied - technically - as there was always either a town or village in and around its ruins.
@@komododragon410they've eroded and been robbed out--only mounds and wall stubs and such remnants are left.
Sounds like Fall of civilizations podcast :)
@@andrewsuryali854090% of nimrud has been destroyed by ISIS
Xenophon is really underrated. Sure, we can assume bias in his own writings, and it’s improper to credit the success of the retreat to just him. However, the bare-bone fact that he’s one of the commanders that managed to lead a diverse and squabbling Greek army back home from the Persian heartland (which I assume is the minimal agreeable account) already make him incredible. It’s relatively easy to fight and conquer one land after another when you have everything, but I suspect not every top-tier commanders throughout history can survive when thrown to a situation like Xenophon was in.
It rings similar to the story of the Czech soldiers who made their own Odyssey back home by train. That was a cool video
Also, Xenophon was 29 years old or so. Imagine that. Of course as an Athenian aristocrat of his time was already well educated, physically exercised, and well trained in military tactics.
the book was part of the teaching [ancient Greek] in High school when the Battle of Thermopylae was just part of History [the class...]
Conquering and surviving against the odds takes different skills.
In strategy games I'm solid at winning but when the odds are stacked against me I am excellent at delaying defeat.
Seriously, this saga deserves a movie!
MAybe even a trilogy or even a series. A lot of material there.
@@repanas6 even better
nah, 10 season series. No Netflix, Disney or Amazon fund.
Not gonna happen any time soon.... There are no women in the story. And the Asians are the bad guys.
Watch the 1979 film "The Warriors". It's based on the 1965 novel of the same name by Sol Yurick which, in turn, is based on Anabasis. Instead of Greek warriors, it used street gangs in 1970s New York City. It's one of my favorite films.
In 1190 AD, Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, when during one of his campaigns against the Seljuks, he had to return through enemy terrain, he followed Xenophon's tactics, and during the following Battle of Philomelion, Alexios arrayed his troops, in a formation, known as "parataxis", also inspired by Xenophon, and won the battle against the Seljuks.
Really? Sources?
@@Masitu0031 That would be the Alexiad, I'm currently reading book and haven't come to this part yet. Either way, would highly recommend...
Ancient Greece good. Byzantine Empire bad.
Surely not, do you mean 1090? 1190 the Emperor is Isaac II Angelos?
Not 1190 ad its 1090 ad
300 - got beaten, has a movie made.
Xenophon's 10000 - successfully got back to the Greek world, still got no movie.
Warriors, come out and plaaaay-yeeay!
In all fairness, the film 300 was based on a comic book that recounted the ancient event in a fictional narrative, which in turn was based on the eponymous film of the 60s. For other ancient Greek-based events, if there is no origin comic book story or 50s-70s film, expect less of a theatrical movie masterpiece and expect more of a television series, if they adapted those kind of events.
Because under modern Western historiography they would be considered national traitors, not heroes. The whole Anabasis happened AFTER the Persian invasion of Greece. Of course, back then the definition of nation-states didn't exist yet, but modern audiences would have a hard time accepting them as hero characters in a movie.
Xenophon got a film before the 300. The Warriors from the 1970s is a modern (at the time) retelling of the tale
@@andrewsuryali8540
That's bull.
If they have a hard time accepting them as heroes they are just traitors or enemies of greece.
This should become a movie
I recommend the Italian writer novelist Valerio Massimo Manfredi work “The Ten Thousand”. Very well written novel based on this adventure
Every historical figure deserves a movie or series
The Novel (and film) The Warriors is apparently a modern interpretation of this story.
The movie "Warriors (1979)" was inspired by this ancient Greek story. Even though instead of hostile tribes in Asia the enemies were other gangs in 1970s New York City.
Hell yeah, or a HBO series like Rome.
"Let's go, it would be a short trip, I swear".
He managed it though. Chad.
"A three hour tour, a three hour tour".
Home by Christmas.
@@UrbanCohort "Who's Christ?" the ten thousand ask.
@@jonbaxter2254 home by...uh...Zeusmas? 🤔
This is the single best adventure story of world history, that never got the massive blockbuster it deserves, which is a damn shame, if you ask me.
i really dont understand why they dont touch this story for a series or w/e... or belisarius... i hope i get to see that happen
We still have time, don’t give up hope
Xenophon was one of the greatest men of all time. I love all his works. His Anabasis and Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey are the triumvirate of greatness!
Not to mention a key source of the spartan state in the late classical period
@@perikleshistoryFamous for his bias.
What a profound appreciation for classical literature! Xenophon's "Anabasis" is indeed a masterpiece of leadership and adventure, capturing the spirit of perseverance. Pairing it with Homer's epic tales of heroism and human nature in the "Iliad" and "Odyssey" forms an unparalleled trio that truly encapsulates the essence of greatness in ancient storytelling. Your love for these works speaks to a deep understanding of the timeless lessons they offer.
He was a warrior poet, and a poet warrior.
@@StMiBll Hello friend.I just want to remind,Xenophon's story is history.Homer's work (8-7th century b.c.e.,) is poetry based upon a true fact,the Trojan war.(11th century b.c.e.) Thanks a lot. Konstantinou Apostolos. Thessaloniki/Macedonia/HELLAS
In the Anabasis, there's a part where xenophon is using a horse to help him command troops.
He orders the men to hurry up a hill. A soldier calls out, mockingly, and says Xenophon doesn't have a shield, and is riding a horse, so its easy for him.
Xenophon, according to his own writings, got off his horse, ran over to the soldier, shoved him down, took his shield and ran up the hill.
Also, Xebophon wrote a book about horsemanship and it has tips on riding and caring for horses. Along with tips on how to flex and show off while on horse back.
Riding in those days was harder, since they didn't have stirrups, so just holding on was considerably more difficult.
Thick thighs all day for all horse riders
When I read the Anabasis, in the original ancient Greek, I was so touched when they reached the sea that I cried!
THALATTA! THALATTA!
Evn i can understand
*Nostos* is the coming back to the fatherland.
*Nostalgia* is the homesickness.
What stands out is the sheer determination, resilience, and leadership demonstrated during this journey. Xenophon, initially a soldier, emerged as a key leader after the original Greek commanders were treacherously killed by the Persians. The army had to march over 1,500 miles from the heart of the Persian Empire back to the safety of the Greek cities, all while being pursued and harassed by enemy forces, navigating hostile terrain, and facing severe shortages of food and supplies.
The Anabasis is not just a military adventure but also a story of survival against overwhelming odds. Xenophon’s narrative illustrates the importance of leadership, morale, and the capacity of soldiers to endure extreme hardship. This epic journey, often regarded as a defining moment in Greek military history, later inspired the legendary campaigns of figures like Alexander the Great.
Great comment !
“Anabasis” was also chosen by the Emperor and Malcador for the final teleportation onto Horus’ battle barge in the siege of Terra. Because of this story
AVE DOMINUS NOX
Ten thousand Custodes...
Man of culture here, ave imperator
I always assumed the Persian Immortals were the basis for the Custodes as they 10,000 and the personal guards of the king of kings
@@mattstakeontheancients7594 that’s very well possible, I am just referring to the final operation where The Emperor, Sanguinius, Rogal Dorn and Valdor and their contingents teleport onto the Vengeful Spirit
Just me, a bowl of popcorn, and an ancient history documentary. Living the dream!
Θάλασσα! Θάλασσα!
(Θάλαττα! Θάλαττα!)
The Sea, The Sea, The Sea, The Sea
Ionian accent
❤
Finally something to listen to at work
🎥This video was previously only available to our patrons and youtube members. Check out our series on the Fall of Sparta, Sulla and Persian Wars on RUclips ruclips.net/channel/UCMmaBzfCCwZ2KqaBJjkj0fwjoin or patreon: www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals
*”MARCH of the 10,000” needs to be a film.*
Oliver Stone is probably the only one I would trust with such a project.
Watch the 1979 film The Warriors. It's based on Sol Yurick's 1965 novel of the same name, which, in turn, is based on Anabasis. Instead of Greek warriors, it uses street gangs in 1970s New York City. It's one of my favorite films.
@@deevan1415 Think I've heard of it. Xenophon's would be a FAR better story to put directly onto the screen.
A great thank you to the makers of the video, for mentioning one of our most important national poets, Konstantinos Kavafis, whose "Ithaka" is a great philosophical poem. And a thank you for telling this story, which was very analytic and well-written. I urge the people who see this to actually try reading Xenophon's book themselves, and they will not be disappointed.
"Our ancestors!" - Czecholovak legionaries.
"Get in the armoured train!"
Also the Czechs
You sound like the Turks, French and English who steal the history of others !
What do you mean? Konstantinou Apostolos.Thessaloniki/Macedonia/HELLAS
@@ΑπόστολοςΚωνσταντίνου-δ2τ Efstathiou Nikolaos Spartan [in Melbourne now]
γεια σου Κωστα!
@@ΑπόστολοςΚωνσταντίνου-δ2τ Read about the Czechoslovak Legion that got stranded in Siberia during the russian civil war, and fought their way to the pacific. Name Surname. Dont Care/Dont Care/DONT CARE
Xenophon's emails going straight to the spam folder.
Hahaha 😂
I had to go back because I thought I misheard 😂
hahahaha
@@ramzcoldlampin5460 it totally broke my immersion :/
Looks like script is AI generated
Never expected to see Kavafis "Ithaca" in the epilogue! Fits perfectly. Amazing poem, amazing video, as always. Thank you!
Xenophon walked, So Alexander can run.
Alexander didn't run, he rode. He was born a spoiled brat and he lived like a spoiled brat.
@@tripsaplenty1227Persian spotted
@@Wyatt-ub6hn
Persian? I'm English and Chinese by blood and American by birth. Not even close dude.
@@Wyatt-ub6hn
"All of yours is mine now because my daddy was king" -Alexander the Great, allegedly
@@Wyatt-ub6hn
Alexander was also a pederast.
IF THIS ANCIENT GREEK-PERSIAN HISTORICAL EVENTS BECOME MOVIE, WILL BE THE BEST MOVIE EVER IN HISTORY OF MOVIES OF ALL TIMES
I mean there is warriors which is a modern retelling of the story
The Return of the Ten Thousands, through a vast enemy terrain! One of the greatest achievements in the entire military History!
He's here! He's finally here, my boy! My boy Xenophon!
God damn, I am so excited, this has been a favourite story of mine for years. It needs a film or TV show or something.
Getting shared with Daniel Stone, the teacher that started my career in history!
Mr. Stone, thanks for creating historians and history fans!
Can you make a video on the history of lakshadweep @@KingsandGenerals
Imagine a high budget short tv series about Xenophon
A story worthy of an epic movie.
Cyrus: 20 min adventure in and out, Greek mercenaries:🤑
After Cyrus dies:🫣
Cyrus: You'd all be home by Christmas!(or Greek equivalent)
Greeks: ...wait a second.
I think its important to stress that “biased” doesn’t necessarily mean “incorrect”. just that it comes from a certain mouth so you should not assume its objectively correct either.
Its something to take with a pinch of salt. Still a useful resource, just one to take with a critical eye.
No there are some incorrect assumptions that Xenophon made in his Anabasis. He thought that Persian resistance would be nonexistent, but Alexander's campaigns prove how difficult it was conquering Persia. Had there been more effective leadership from the Persians, things could have gone differently.
Thank you so much!! Greetings from Epirus Region, Hellas!
Yes!! One of history's most remarkable tales ! Thank you!
Xenophon is the patriarch of Mount and Blade .
hahahahahhaha naaah didnt do much trading or didnt participate in any tournaments and make his bets on act 1.
Amazing that perhaps one of the greatest recorded escapes took place during this era
To us Greeks this is likely a common knowledge. "Κυρου Αναβασις" or "Καθοδος των Μυρίων" is a story that shows beyond everything the resilience of those men to return home safely.. Fighting their way through enemy and unknown lands till they reach friendly land and the sea shore of Euxinus Pontus. Yes Xenophon describes this adventurous journey in some bias way as he was one of the protagonists of this. Thus, his way of narrowing the events was (and still is ) quite close to the greek spirit of living and live to tell an adventurous circumstances line of events.. :)) And yes they did had souvlaki when ever their gains of provisions allowed them to have :)) by the way i dont think that there is an army that managed to repeat such a march through such a large enemy territory without any certain help guidance or provisions. Not even Alexander did that.. θαλαττα! Θαλατα!!
Ancien greeks are very talented about telling stories there should be a movie about this
In my opinion its one of the greatest videos you 've made. Well done! Keep going!
Astonishing documentary. Never in my life did I think that I would be able to witness this epic tale being transformed in a well-written documentary.
My favorite part of Anabasis is when they stumble upon the ruins of an ancient city that neither they nor any locals seemingly knew anything about.
And it turned out to be (I think) the capital city of the Assyrian Empire.
Fascinating to think that the Assyrians were about as far removed from the ancient Greeks as we are from them but in the other direction of time.
An absolutely sensational telling of an equally sensational story. Well done!
Myrion in Greek is ten thousand. Hecatomyrion means hundred times myrion, thus, one million
Finally a proper video abt it on the Internet!! Fantastic🎉
The greatest feat of endurance ever, forever motivating us and many other generations to never give up!
Bruh they wasted their ammunition with cheese. Total war is more realistic than I thought.
Lol total war ammunition is so dumb. But it is a game and for it's time, was incredible. Too bad they fell off with their games. A proper bronze age total war would be epic. Also another medieval one would be dope. I still play attila lol
Thats what happens when you try to cater to the mainstream@@elliott7706
@@elliott7706 Sometimes I think I hear a faint "Medieval 3" calling my name...but then I remember I haven't taken my pills
"Xeno-phoooooonnnnn..... come out to plaaa-aaaayyyyy....."
LOL😂
CAN YOU DIG IT!!??- Cyrus (probably)
And the story gets retold in an odd way with the 1970's film The Warriors
But did they come out and play? 😂
They tried, but The Riffs intervened
One of my favorite films.
For some reason, my mother decided to read Xenophon Anabasis to me when I was a child of about 8. I was fascinated. I read it again when I was 40.
That is how my history journey started, too, so I love to hear that. Wasn't Anabasis, but still, 8 years old, another history story.
@@KingsandGenerals I don't know why she chose Anabasis as her taste was sci-fi, murder mysteries, and westerns. She never did it before nor again. But I loved it. I still recall the description of mountain archers holding bows with their feet and drawing with both hands. I would pester her to read to me but after a while, I just started reading for myself. Love history. My wife gained a love of history as well from listening to me describe historical events. I brought history to life for her, unlike her previous experience.
Xenophon has always been my favorite Greek
Mine is Cleopatra.
@@JZsBFF lol some might argue she was a black African
@@jlih6271 If she was as good looking as all stories say she was, I don't care.
Και η Κλεοπάτρα Ελληνίδα ήταν ,(Ρωτά να μάθεις)
We are called Hellenes not Greeks
22:06 I can't believe they actually used the Total War strat of sending one shit-tier unit to the enemy's wall, running back and forth, dodging arrows, until the enemy's archers run out of ammo
Yup, literally the greatest story ever.
For me this is the most amazing adventure ever,
Excellent video as always. You guys have one of the best educational channels on RUclips!
I read Anabasis 20 years ago! Thank you for this refresher!
I think there is little chance Alexander convinces/motivates all of Greece to conquer the world without this story that probably every Greek knew.
Alexander didn't convince all of Greece to invade Persia, cause most Greeks didn't want Macedonian hegemony. He forced Greece to cooperate with him. Overall it was a Macedonian invasion with PR for the Greeks.
Eternal glory to our formidable ancestors 🔥🇬🇷
“The centuries since have devised nothing to surpass the genius of this warrior"…
The book that Xenophon wrote is called, "Cyrus's Anabasis"
These books are truly epic. Arrian of Nicomedia, the Greek General and Historian, was greatly inspired by Xenophon’s Anabasis a few centuries later. He also wrote “The Anabasis of Alexander”, an account on Alexander’s the Great legendary campaigns to the east…
i was just finishing the book and this banger came out.
Finally I’m so excited for this story!
Just a small correction, a "mediser" (μηδισε) isn't a culturally compromised Persia-Lover. It's someone who betrayed his greek brethren to fight with the Persians.
Source: I'm Greek and it's a common phrase to say someone is a traitor.
Common now or common then? Did it change from compromised Greek to traitorous Greek or was it always a traitorous Greek?
@@danielseelye6005It still holds the same meaning despite being a rather academic term. “Μήδισε” still means switching sides and joining the enemy with the nuance of a monetary incentive
@@danielseelye6005
Persians were called also Medes -Μήδες
Someone who stood along with Persians was Medise ~Μήδισε
@@ChillakoC92
Yes we still use it
@@danielseelye6005 I remember 'μηδισε' used in books of 20th century
Its funny I first learned about this guy from a Age of Empires campaign, and here Kings & Generals are going into detail about him and the journey.
I just finished reading this last week and then this video comes up on my feed. Thank the Muses!
Το Περί ἱππικῆς = De Equis , It is a work by Xenophon, the first work about horses and riding.
Thank you for promoting and support Greek history 🙏🇬🇷
Thanks for all Kings & Generals! 🎉
One of the most beautifully made documentaries. The art work is just amazing, the narrative perfect as always and an epic journey making you feel you are there. Can’t wait for the next chapter.
Gripping artwork, well done research and an amazing story. Thank you guys so much for pumping out this great content about this amazing epic. :)
Incredible story and what a video you made about it. Thank you for sharing ancient greek history with the world!
Amazing video. Well done from Greece my friend. And honestly, I didn't know that ancient Greeks were eating pita gyro and suvlaki with herbs. 😁😁😁😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣
Thanks for this! Been waiting for a Xenophon Video.
The March Up Country (Anabasis) by Xenophon is a great book to read if you enjoyed The History of the Peloponnesian War by Thucydides. They use a very similar approach for presenting history.
My name is Xenophon (named after my grandfather), and this suggestion video popped up! This name still exists in Greece, although not very common. My grandparents were Greeks that originated from Euxinos Pontos (or the Black Sea), where the troops shouted "thalatta-thalatta" at the view of the sea. You can guess the rest!
At last! The real badass guy of the ancient world! Ξενοφώντας για πάντα!!!!
Xenophon is legitimately one of the greatest individuals of mankind's history and I would be willing to bet not even half our populace knows who he is.
Excellent video. Please a video on Artexexres III and his wars and reconquests.
Xenophon deserves his own HBO series!
And Sean Bean should portray Xenophon in such a series!
That would be quite misleading, considering he survives (spoiler!!!)
😅
@@Angelimir Agreed Sean Bean usually kicks the bucket, except in Bravo Two Zero and Sharpe. In Troy too but there he wasn't the main character.
Been waiting for this masterpiece.
The only YT Channel that skipping ads feels illegal because of the videos quality.
Thanks!
Yesss was waiting this one, thank you for telling the story
I can't see Klearchos, a Spartan after all, coming out with such a long-winded speech.
Things change. Sparta wasn't one thing all the time and not all Spartans were laconic all the time.
@@KingsandGenerals True enough. But still, I'm inclined to think that Xenophon, like so many ancient writers, put words in his character's mouths.
A story worthy of filming!
Watch the 1979 film The Warriors. It's based on Sol Yurick's 1965 novel of the same name, which, in turn, is based on Anabasis. Instead of Greek warriors, it uses street gangs in 1970s New York City. It's one of my favorite films.
I read this story way back, and loved this epic tale. Thanks to K&G for showing this, joining is money well spent.
This is the story we never got to see from Hollywood. It would be a great two part movie
Perhaps when they're done with sequels, spin-offs, prequels, remakes, crossovers, cycles, reboots.
I wated so patiently for this. Now my life is fulfiled.
...oh, that was easy...
ok I am excited too
It strikes me the oracle and olympians were the ancient equivalent of managment consultants - got a difficult decision you want to justify.... call them :-)!
Thanks Kings & Generals! The plushie looks great 👍
It could be a hollywood movie for sure and i am wondering why it is not until now. I knew this part of story ofcourse cause i am greek and it still impresses me.
Watch the 1979 film The Warriors. It's based on Sol Yurick's 1965 novel of the same name, which, in turn, is based on Anabasis. Instead of Greek warriors, it uses street gangs in 1970s New York City. It's one of my favorite films.
Xenophon's Oeconomicus would first be translated into Latin by a young M. Tullius Cicero, as an exercise for learning Greek.
Perfect Ancient Band of Brothers right here.
You could have marked the Greek colonies on the map as such, it would have helped the narrative to become more easily digestible.
This channel is pure gold
"The Falcon of Sparta" by Conn Iggulden Got me interested in this historical event☺️
One of my favorite books of all time
This story was adapted by the author of the novel, "Team Yankee" into the novel, "The Ten Thousand".
Harold Coyle is one of my top 3 authors of military fiction. He writes ground combat like Clancy did for naval warfare
@@swiftmatic agreed👍
@shaider1982 fun fact: for the basic outline and for specific battle locales, Coyle used Gen. Sir John Hackett's "The Third World War: August 1985" credited, of course, as a reference.
It's very interesting how many greek military figures tried to start a war campaign against the Persians and finally Alexander succeeded. It would be a very nice video as well!
It’s here… it’s finally here
One of the best pieces of history as told by the one who was there and brought most of them home safe.
The story of the Persian poet Attar's "The Conference of the Birds" and Xenophon's "Anabasis" actually have an interesting similarity. The Conference of the Birds is the story of 30 birds who are looking for a leader for themselves, and together they decide to find Simorgh as their king (Simorgh is a legendary Iranian bird, which in English means thirty birds). And from there, the adventure begins and they start traveling and looking for Simorgh. Just like Xenophon's Anabasis and the Greek mercenaries who looking for Cyrus the younger for becoming king and then their story begins. We are the birds in the story. All of us have our own ideas and ideals, our own fears and anxieties, as we hold on to our own version of the truth. Like the birds of this story, we may take flight together, but the journey itself will be different for each of us. Attar tells us that truth is not static, and that we each tread a path according to our own capacity!!!! Amazing!!!!
Kind of a coincidence for me as I had never heard of Persian myth until I started playing Prince of Persia: the Lost Crown recently which tells of Simorgh and Anahita mentioned in this video.
@@jimralston4789 There are many Persian legends that are less known in the West. If you are interested, I will write you 5 examples of them:
1). Arash the Archer
2). Rostam and Sohrab
3).Siyâvash
4). Rostam and Esfandiyār
5). Zāl
If you want to know more, refer to the book of "Shahnameh" there are more than 200 stories.
@@CyrusPersia-wv7zo Thank you so much for the suggestions. It's fascinating to learn more about a rich ancient culture.
@@jimralston4789 your welcome☺️