a greek victory

A detailed Summary of a greek victory


The vast differences between the size and nature of the Greek and Persian forces led to the adoption of opposing strategies.

The Persians attempted to utilise their numbers to quickly overwhelm the Greek resistance, whilst the Greeks had to devise

more cunning approaches to offset their deficit in number. Despite Herodotus' viewpoint of hurried and disordered reactions of

the Greeks, there is evidence to suggest a designated Greek plan which was adhered to by their forces.

Xerxes had crossed into Europe, via the Hellespont, with about 180 000 men. Despite their technological disadvantage

(Ethiopian and Indian troops armed with stone-age weaponary), Xerxes had a firm belief that his numbers would prevail. At

the outset, the Greeks had realised that the complete defeat of such a large force was an impossibility. Their actions in 480-479

reveal a strategy which would slow the advance of the Persians, but allowed for concession of Greek Territory.

The Greeks' main policy was to exploit flaws in the Persian war machine. These flaws were largely a result of the Persians'

numbers. Themistocles had realised that the key role of the Persian fleet was to supply the army. The huge land force was


In order for this policy to work effectively, the Greeks had to adopt a northern defence strategy. The further north the Greeks

to bypass the Greek blockade. Thermopylae held greater strategic advantage because it was the only pass which led

seas. A further threat by Themistocles to medise caused an immediate reaction from Admiral Eurybiades who changed his plan

Herodotus' prose, probably signifies the Isthmus as the planned third defensive position. Themistocles convinced the

and inflicted 20 000 casualties onto the Persians. Upon news of the army's defeat, the Greek fleet immediately retreated to



Some common words found in the essay are:
Thrace Total, Greeks Persian, Tempe Thessaly, Thermopylae Artemisium, Ethiopian Indian, Athenians Persian, Despite Herodotus', Salamis Phaleron, Greek Persian, Sicinnus Themistocles', persian fleet, fleet greeks, greek fleet, persian fleet supply, supply lines, geographical advantage, fleet supply, persian commanders, greek resistance, persian army, 7 000, battle determined fate,

Approximate Word count = 1055
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: History

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