Importance of Leadership Flashcards
(18 cards)
What negative traits are attributed to Xerxes according to Herodotus?
Arrogance, impetuosity, immaturity
Herodotus presents Xerxes unfavorably, contrasting with royal inscriptions that may depict him differently.
How is the navarchy described by Aristotle?
“Virtually another kingship”
The navarchy played a crucial role in naval leadership during the Persian Wars.
What was Themistocles’ chief motive for building a fleet? [Herodotus]
Apprehension of losing Athenian support
This reflects Themistocles’ strategic foresight in military planning.
What did Themistocles persuade the Athenians to do? [Herodotus]
Spend on the construction of two hundred warships
Modern historians question the accuracy of this figure, suggesting it was likely 100 instead.
What does Herodotus mean by ‘the wooden wall would not be taken’?
A reference to the defensive strength of Athens’ naval power
This phrase signifies the importance of naval strategy in the conflict.
What was Spartan leadership’s stance on war according to Thucydides?
Anti-war
Leaders like Archidamos and Pleistoanax expressed reluctance toward engaging in war.
What happened to Pleistoanax according to Thucydides?
Exiled for supposedly being bribed to retreat from Attica
This incident may have been more about his pro-peace stance than actual bribery.
What was Archidamos’ argument against going to war? [Thuc]
Emphasized the need for resources and strategy to win
Thucydides uses hindsight to highlight Archidamos’ wisdom.
What was Pericles’ strategy during the Archidamian War? [Thuc]
Avoid direct battle, rely on navy and resources of the empire
The strategy focused on defense and using the fleet to harass Spartan allies.
What stipulation did the other members of the Hellenic League have regarding leadership? [Herodotus]
Stipulated for a Lacedaemonian commander
This reflects the power dynamics within the league during the Persian Wars.
What behavior led to the Athenians depriving the Lacedaemonians of command? [Herodotus]
Insufferable behavior of Pausanias
This incident illustrates the tensions within the Hellenic League.
What was Kimon’s contribution to the Persian Wars? [Plutarch]
Humbled the pride of the Great King
His military victories significantly impacted Persian ambitions.
What notable victory did Kimon achieve at the Battle of Eurymedon? [Plutarch]
Carried off two victories in a single day
This battle was crucial in altering the power balance in favor of Athens.
What advice did Alcibiades give regarding Decelea? [thuc]
Fortify Decelea in Attica
This strategic advice reflects his military insight during the war.
What happened to Alcibiades when he returned from exile? [xen]
Elected as general by the Athenians
His return highlights the complexities of his political and military career.
What was the outcome of Alcibiades’ mission that led to a battle loss for Athens? [xen]
Launched a raid that resulted in defeat
Alcibiades’ decisions often had significant consequences for Athens.
What critical decision did Miltiades face at Marathon? [Herodotus]
Either to enslave Athens or to make her free
This decision was pivotal in determining the fate of Athens during the Persian Wars.
How did the Athenians advance towards the enemy at Marathon? [Herodotus]
At a run
This reflects their determination and bravery in the battle.
