The Cavalry General (ePub)

Xenophon (c. 430 - 354 BCE) was an ancient Greek historian, philosopher, and a disciple of Socrates with a significant impact on the development of both historical methodology and military literature. He was not just a thinker but also a man of action who partook in various military campaigns. His experiences as a mercenary leader and an expert horseman deeply informed his writing. 'The Cavalry General' ('Hipparchikos'), is notably a practical manual for the effective management and strategic deployment of cavalry forces, underscoring Xenophon's expertise in horsemanship and his insights into military leadership. In addition to 'The Cavalry General', Xenophon's literary corpus includes 'Anabasis', a narrative of the Greek mercenary soldiers (the Ten Thousand) retreating through hostile territory after a failed campaign in Persia, and 'Cyropaedia', an exploration in the form of a historical romance of the education of Cyrus the Great, which reflects his philosophic ideals. Furthermore, his 'Hellenica' is a continuation of Thucydides' historiographical work on the Peloponnesian War, providing not only a history of the period but also illuminating the complexities of Greek politics. Xenophon's writings not only serve as vital historical sources but also provide a window into the sociopolitical fabric and military customs of ancient Greece, presented through a clear and concise narrative style that has been praised for its elegance and simplicity.