Xenophon der Lügner

Németh, György (2003) Xenophon der Lügner. Acta Antiqua, 43 (3-4). pp. 317-322. ISSN 0044-5975

Preview

Text aant.43.2003.3-4.5.pdf Download (87kB) | Preview

Abstract

Xenophon calls Sokrates prytanis in the Hellenica and epistates in the Memorabilia. The Hellenica is a historical work, therefore it adheres more to reality. In the Memorabilia he intently exaggerates his master's role so that his opposition to the outraged populace may appear a more magnificent act - this suits the genre of the Memorabilia better. He places the state-description of the Lakedaimonion politeia into the times of Lycurgus, the half mythical age of the Heracleids, indicating that everything he describes is valid not in real time but in the world of utopia.  In 404 B.C. there were at least 8000 hoplites in Athens, still the thirty tyrants confined franchise to 3000 hoplites. Possession was not the only condition of franchise, but loyalty to the system was one as well. It is clear, however, from Xenophon's Hellenica that the 300 hippeis were not included in that number. Thus the leadership structure during the time of the thirty would be 3000 hoplites, 300 hippeis and 30 leaders.

Actions (login required)

Edit Item