Xenophon
Greek · Geography · Biography · Rhetoric · Philosophy
4 works · 3,504 aligned sentences
Birth: 430 BC / Death: 354 BC
Erchia → Corinth · historian · mercenary · philosopher
Agesilaus
This work is a biographical encomium by Xenophon, celebrating the life and exceptional virtues of Agesilaus II, the king of Sparta. The first half of the work chronologically narrates Agesilaus's brilliant military achievements, from his Asian campaign and battles against the Persian satrap Tissaphernes to his return for the Battle of Coronea and his later expedition to Egypt. In the second half, the narrative shifts to a thematic analysis, praising his personal virtues such as piety toward the gods, financial integrity, self-control over pleasures, and deep patriotism through concrete anecdotes. The author contrasts Agesilaus's simple lifestyle with the arrogance and luxury of the Persian king, illustrating the ideal image of a true leader. Ultimately, the work concludes by declaring that while his physical strength may have faded with age, his spirit remained indomitable, and his life stood as an immortal embodiment of perfect virtue.
Geography18 chunks · §1.1-1.11–§11.9-11.161,352 aligned sentencesRead →Apology
This work clarifies why Socrates maintained a resolute and seemingly boastful attitude (megalegoria) during his trial, drawing on the testimony of his companion Hermogenes. Before the trial, Socrates argues that having lived a just life is itself the best preparation for his defense, and that dying now to avoid the infirmities of old age is a divine blessing. In court, he boldly refutes the charges of atheism and introducing new deities by appealing to his "daimonion" (divine sign) and the Delphic oracle to prove his excellence. Even after receiving the death sentence, Socrates calmly accepts his fate without fear, rejecting offers to escape and remaining true to his principles of justice. Finally, after predicting the tragic future of his accusers, he departs the court with a serene mind, leading the author to praise his supreme wisdom and noble death.
Rhetoric4 chunks · §1-9–§26-34406 aligned sentencesRead →On The Cavalry Commander
This work is a practical guide written for a newly appointed cavalry commander, focusing on the recruitment, management, training, and tactics of a cavalry force. The author begins with foundational preparations, including the recruitment of soldiers, the care of horses, and efficient troop organization, while also explaining how to raise morale through public demonstrations. In the middle section, various tactical elements are discussed, such as marching, scouting, utilizing terrain, and using deception to outmaneuver the enemy. The text also proposes specific strategies for facing superior forces, including guerrilla attacks, cooperation with infantry, and institutional reforms like the introduction of mercenary cavalry. Finally, it outlines the qualities a leader needs to win the trust and respect of his subordinates, concluding with a strong emphasis on piety, as the success of all military endeavors ultimately depends on the favor of the gods.
Philosophy12 chunks · §1.1-1.15–§9.1-9.91,034 aligned sentencesRead →Ways and Means
This work is a treatise proposing concrete economic and financial reforms to resolve Athens' chronic fiscal deficit and ensure the self-sufficiency of its citizens. The author begins by highlighting Attica's favorable natural environment and geographical advantages, demonstrating that the foundation for national recovery already exists. He then proposes attracting more resident aliens (metoikoi) by improving their treatment, alongside promoting trade through public investment in port and market infrastructure. Furthermore, focusing on the inexhaustible value of the Laurion silver mines, the author details a unique mining scheme where the state owns and leases slaves, while also presenting security measures to protect these mines during wartime. To realize these reforms and restore Athenian prosperity and hegemony, he argues that maintaining peace is essential and advocates for the establishment of peace guardians. Finally, he concludes that these plans should be implemented after obtaining the gods' approval through oracles, thereby securing lasting safety and prosperity for the state.
Philosophy9 chunks · §1.1-1.8–§6.1-6.3712 aligned sentencesRead →