Cyrus the Greatmakers of History
A historical account written in the late 19th century. The book focuses on the life and achievements of Cyrus, the founder of the Persian Empire, presenting his story in a way that is accessible and engaging for both young readers and scholars. The narrative explores significant events in Cyrus's life, interwoven with historical and cultural contexts. The opening of the narrative introduces the historical backdrop of Cyrus's era, highlighting the grandeur of the Persian monarchy and touching on the contrasting simpler nature of Greek republics. Abbott emphasizes the importance of ancient historians Herodotus and Xenophon, whose accounts provide the basis for much of what is known about Cyrus. The text also reflects on the complexities of power dynamics, emphasizing Cyrus's early life, including his birth, the prophecy surrounding him, and the intrigue of royal court life in Media. Through vivid storytelling, Abbott sets the stage for Cyrus's rise as a pivotal figure in history, capturing the imagination of readers from the very beginning.
About Cyrus the Greatmakers of History
Chapter Summaries
- 1
- Abbott introduces the two primary ancient sources for Cyrus's story: Herodotus the historian and Xenophon the general. He discusses their different approaches and the reliability of their accounts, noting that both wrote for Greek audiences and had different motivations.
- 2
- Astyages dreams that his daughter Mandane will bear a son who will overthrow him. He marries her to Cambyses of Persia and later orders the infant Cyrus killed. Harpagus is given this task but arranges for the child to be saved by the herdsman Mitridates.
- 3
- Young Cyrus visits his grandfather Astyages in Media, where he charms the court with his wit and frankness. He learns horsemanship and courtly ways, but maintains his simple Persian values. Eventually he returns to Persia with valuable skills and experiences.
Key Themes
- Fate vs. Free Will
- The story explores how prophecies and dreams drive characters' actions, yet ultimately fulfill themselves despite attempts to prevent them. Astyages's efforts to kill Cyrus only ensure his eventual downfall.
- The Corruption of Power
- Cyrus transforms from a generous, noble child into a ruthless conqueror. The narrative shows how absolute power corrupts even the most promising individuals, leading to cruelty and ultimately destruction.
- Revenge and Justice
- Multiple revenge cycles drive the plot, from Harpagus's long-planned vengeance against Astyages to Tomyris's final revenge against Cyrus. The story questions whether such revenge constitutes justice.
Characters
- Cyrus the Great(protagonist)
- The founder of the Persian Empire, born to Mandane and Cambyses. As a child, he was nearly killed by his grandfather Astyages due to prophetic dreams, but was saved and raised by a herdsman. He grew to become a great conqueror who united Media and Persia.
- Astyages(antagonist)
- King of Media and grandfather of Cyrus. Driven by prophetic dreams that his grandson would overthrow him, he ordered the infant Cyrus to be killed. Later defeated and captured by Cyrus in fulfillment of the prophecy.
- Harpagus(major)
- A Median general ordered by Astyages to kill the infant Cyrus, but who arranged for the child to be saved instead. Later orchestrated Cyrus's rise to power as revenge against Astyages for a horrific punishment.
- Crœsus(major)
- The wealthy king of Lydia, famous for his riches. Consulted oracles before attacking Cyrus but was defeated and captured. Later became Cyrus's advisor and friend, accompanying him on campaigns.
- Mandane(major)
- Daughter of Astyages and mother of Cyrus. Married to Cambyses of Persia. Her father's dreams about her led to the attempt on Cyrus's life as an infant.
- Mitridates(minor)
- The herdsman ordered to expose the infant Cyrus in the wilderness. Along with his wife Spaco, he saved Cyrus by substituting his own dead child.
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