The Complete Historical Works of Xenophon

The Complete Historical Works of Xenophon offers readers a comprehensive insight into the historical events of ancient Greece as witnessed and narrated by the esteemed author. Xenophon's literary style is characterized by a straightforward and factual approach, providing a clear and vivid picture of military campaigns, political intrigues, and societal norms of his time. His works, including Anabasis and Hellenica, are invaluable sources of information for scholars and history enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the realities of ancient Greek life and warfare. The detailed accounts and vivid descriptions make this collection a must-read for those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of classical Greek history. Xenophon's writings stand as significant contributions to the historical narrative of ancient Greece, enriching our knowledge of this influential period. His firsthand experiences as a soldier and historian add depth and authenticity to his narratives, making them a compelling read for anyone curious about the ancient world.

Xenophon (circa 430 – 354 BC) was an ancient Greek philosopher, historian, soldier, mercenary, and a disciple of Socrates. As a historian, Xenophon is known for his writings on the history of his own times, the sayings of Socrates, and the life in ancient Greece. He is particularly famous for works such as 'Anabasis,' which recounts the adventures of Greek mercenaries in Persia, and 'Cyropaedia,' a historical romance that outlines the education of the Persian king Cyrus the Great. A prominent military leader, he was also involved in the expedition of Cyrus the Younger and managed to lead ten thousand Greek mercenaries back to safety after the defeat in the Battle of Cunaxa—an experience that he described in 'Anabasis' with rich detail and compelling narrative. Xenophon's abilities as a thinker are showcased in 'Memorabilia,' where he defends Socrates against the charges of corrupting the youth. His literary style embodies a simple, straightforward Attic dialect, often contrasting with the complexity of his contemporary, Thucydides. The 'Complete Historical Works of Xenophon' brings together his extensive contributions to historical and philosophical literature. Xenophon's works serve as valuable primary sources for the understanding of Greek culture and military tactics in the classical era, and they are still studied for their historical and literary values in modern scholarship.