Herodotus’ account of the Persian army commanded by King Xerxes can leave anyone in awe. Xerxes continues to send in the Medes despite Demaratus’ warnings and that of the spy. He only ends up losing. This shows Xerxes to be obstinate. Line 212 reveals Xerxes’ concern about his army. Xerxes delight when Ephialtes reveals the other way to victory is exemplified also by Diodorus’ Book 11[8]. Thorsten Begel’s account regarding Xerxes resembles the first two. Leonidas is described as the descendant of an illustrious Spartan lineage by Herodotus in The Histories book VII line 204. The strength of his character is demonstrated when he led only 300 Spartans with a handful of Thebes troops against a Persian army. In line 220 he sent some Greeks to the front when Spartans looked like they were going to lose. But he waited along with Spartans. This demonstrates his concern and pride for others as well as his determination to fight honorably. Although Leonidas died in the battle, his glory was still reflected in a statue of a lion erected to his memory. Diodorus of Sicily Books 11[4] has a very good depiction of Leonidas’s wit. Leonidas makes a convincing argument for taking only 300 Spartans in his army. Thorsten Beigel describes Leonidas as a loving father and husband in addition to being a Spartan king. Gorgo’s conversation with Leonidas just before he goes to battle highlights the emotional and responsible side of Leonidas. One of the other things that was discussed is Spartan militarism. They were confident in their warrior qualities, which was evident when they bravely faced an overwhelming Persian army. They did not surrender, even though they knew the outcome.
Herodotus or Diodorus did not mention Gorgo’s role and that of other Spartan ladies. Zack Snyder focuses on Gorgo in “300”, a film that is a wonderful portrayal of Gorgo during the battle. Gorgo is portrayed as a confident, active wife who supports and advises her husband. The two incidents with the Persian ambassador show this. Her bravery and boldness are a reflection of her own self-worth. This account also highlights a couple of romantic and emotional exchanges between Leonidas, which highlight his familial duties. Gorgo’s character is also portrayed as one who is willingly enduring Theron’s abuse for her husband and Sparta. Gorgo’s honor is not affected by Theron’s sexual assault. She kills Theron with a saber and responds with sarcasm. Ephialtes’ visit to Xerxes is also described in the account. He is enticed by dancing lascivious girls. It is important to note that the comparison between the two women highlights the honorable Spartan woman. Gorgo’s depiction is important because it shows that Spartan women were more equal and free. The male hero’s bravery was paired with a female co-hero.
A concept that is of great importance is defending Greece’s freedom and gaining everlasting glory through the defense of your homeland. Although Spartans numbered few, their courage, intelligence and confidence were unparalleled. They were able to resist the Persian army’s strength until the very end because of their unshakeable self-belief. They shielded the sun with their bravery, even when the Persians hurled arrows at them. The Spartans strictly followed the prophecy that was given to them. (The Histories of Herodotus, Book VII, Line 220). Herodotus continues to describe the Spartans’ fight to their very last breath. Diodorus from Sicily speaks about Spartan glory in parallel. He mentions Leonidas’ eagerness to bring glory for himself and Sparta in book 11[9]. Simonides’ poem in Book 11[11] praises Leonidas as well as the Spartans for their strength and fame. The Spartans’ deaths were also marked with an inscription (Herodotus The Histories, book VII, lines 226).
Overall, all three accounts gave the Spartan military a high praise and praised King Leonidas. They also gave King Xerxes a fair judgment while honoring Gorgo as well as the other Spartan ladies.
