Cyropaedia: Analysis of Major Characters
The "Cyropaedia: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the intricate portrayal of key figures in Xenophon's narrative about Cyrus the Great, a legendary Persian king. Central to the text is Cyrus himself, depicted as an ideal monarch who embodies virtues of leadership, prioritizing the state's welfare above personal ambition. Born a prince in the minor kingdom of Pars, he receives comprehensive training in warfare and governance, influenced by his father Cambyses and his grandfather Astyages. His rise to power involves strategic alliances, notably with Cyaxares, the king of Media, and includes both military conquests and astute political maneuvering.
Important supporting characters include Chrysantas, Cyrus’s chief administrative advisor; Hystaspas, a loyal friend celebrated for his intellect; and Pheraulus, a mediator who bridges Cyrus and his subjects. The dynamic between Cyrus and Cyaxares reflects a blend of rivalry and cooperation, while Astyages is presented as a supportive figure rather than a jealous adversary. Other characters such as Croesus, the defeated king of Lydia, and Assyrian prisoners like Gobyras and Gadatas add depth and variety to the narrative, illustrating the complexities of power and leadership during this historical period. Overall, the analysis highlights the multifaceted relationships and traits that define these characters, offering insight into themes of loyalty, ambition, and the art of kingship.
Cyropaedia: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Xenophon
Genre: Nonfiction
Locale: The Median kingdom
Plot: History
Time: Antiquity
Cyrus, the hero, whose education for kingship is the subject of the story. Cyrus is presented as the ideal leader and king, aware of the art of statesmanship as well as its practical politics. Cyrus has great strength of character but always puts the state's interests before his own. Cyrus is born a prince in the minor kingdom of Pars, which is but a small part of the great Median realm of the king Astyages. Cyrus is the son of the Persian prince Cambyses and of Mandane, the daughter of Astyages himself. His father, a firm man, gives him vigorous instruction in the arts of war. He is also tutored by Astyages and is particularly inspired by his grandfather's love of horses. The obvious talents possessed by Cyrus spur court observers to predict great achievements for him in the future; these prophecies are given concrete force by omens and oracles. When Cyaxares succeeds Astyages and discovers that the Median kingdom has been attacked by Assyrians, he summons Cyrus to his aid. Cyrus helps vanquish the Assyrians and later conquers Babylon on his own. Advised by Chrysantas, Hystaspas, and Pheraulus, Cyrus becomes the most powerful leader the world has ever known. He even supplants Cyaxares as king of the Medes and marries Cyaxares' daughter. Rather than directly confronting opponents such as Cyaxares and Croesus, he tries to co-opt them into his own political framework as much as possible. At once victorious general, wise administrator, and heroic paragon, Cyrus sums up the best of which humanity is capable in his time.
Chrysantas (krih-SAN-tuhs), a counselor of Cyrus who is his chief deputy in practical and administrative matters.
Hystaspas (hihs-TAS-pahs), a loyal friend and counselor to Cyrus, renowned for his intelligence and wit.
Pheraulus, a Persian commoner who often mediates between Cyrus and the people whom he rules. Pheraulus is among Cyrus' most trusted advisers.
Cyaxares (si-AK-suh-reez), the brother of Mandane and son of Astyages. As king of Media, he helps Cyrus conquer Assyria. He later gives his daughter to Cyrus in marriage. There is some rivalry between Cyrus and Cyaxares, but in general they work in concert as friends and allies.
Astyages (as-TI-uh-jeez), the grandfather of Cyrus and king of the Medes. Unlike other writers, who portray Astyages as jealous of Cyrus, Xenophon presents him as a loving and encouraging grandfather.
Artabazes (ahr-tuh-BAY-zuhs), a Mede who admires Cyrus and convinces the rest of the Medes to accept Cyrus as their king.
Gobyras and Gadatas, Assyrian prisoners of war who help Cyrus make his conquest. Their sad personal stories provide variety and contrast in the composition of the work.
Croesus (KREE-suhs), a famous and wealthy king of Lydia who is unexpectedly conquered by Cyrus and becomes a prisoner in Cyrus' court.
Cambyses (kam-BI-seez), Cyrus' father. He gives Cyrus early instruction in the arts of war.
Mandane, Cyrus'mother, daughter of Astyages, and sister of Cyaxares. Mandane helps cement the connection between the Median and Persian royal families that helps Cyrus unite the two peoples.