Themistocles & Xerxes
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Themistocles & Xerxes
Themistocles, ostracised from Athens for boasting of his achievements, prostrates himself before Xerxes, King of Persia
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Media ID 4362185
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10151511
Achievements Artaxerxes Athens Boasting Persia Themistocles Xerxes Ostracised Ostracism
EDITORS COMMENTS
This image depicts a pivotal moment in ancient Greek history, as depicted in the painting "Themistocles Prostrating Before Xerxes." The scene unfolds during the reign of King Xerxes I of Persia, around 471 BC. The Greek statesman and military leader, Themistocles, is shown humbly prostrating himself before the Persian monarch. Themistocles, a celebrated hero in Athens for his role in the Greek victory at the Battle of Salamis, had recently fallen out of favor with his fellow citizens. Accused of boasting about his achievements and amassing wealth, he was subjected to ostracism – a democratic process that allowed the Athenians to expel any citizen they deemed a threat to the city-state. With no other options, Themistocles sought refuge in Persia, hoping to negotiate a peace treaty with Xerxes. The painting masterfully captures the contrasting emotions of the two figures. Xerxes, depicted with an air of regal authority, sits on his throne, his expression conveying a sense of curiosity and intrigue. Themistocles, on the other hand, is shown as a humbled and desperate man, his body bent in submission before the Persian king. The historical significance of this painting lies in the potential diplomatic implications of Themistocles' actions. By seeking refuge in Persia, he opened the door for a possible alliance between Athens and Persia, which could have drastically altered the course of Greek history. However, the exact outcome of these negotiations remains a topic of debate among historians. This evocative image offers a glimpse into the complex political landscape of ancient Greece and the intrigue of diplomacy during a time of war and shifting alliances.
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