An innovative approach to the history of the First Persian Empire,
offering an accessible historical narrative for students and
general readers alike A History of the Achaemenid Empire considers
archaeological and written sources to provide an expansive,
source-based introduction to the diverse and culturally rich world
of ancient Achaemenid Persia. Assuming no prior background, this
accessible textbook follows the dynastic line from the
establishment and expansion of the empire under the early
Achaemenid kings to its collapse in 330 BCE. The text integrates
the latest research, key primary sources, and archaeological data
to offer readers deep insights into the empire, its kings, and its
people. Chronologically organized chapters contain written,
archaeological, and visual sources that highlight key learning
points, stimulate discussion, and encourage readers to evaluate
specific pieces of evidence. Throughout the text, author Maria
Brosius emphasizes the necessity to critically assess Greek
sources--highlighting how their narrative of Achaemenid political
historyoften depicted stereotypical images of the Persians rather
than historical reality. Topics include the establishment of empire
under Cyrus the Great, Greek-Persian relations, the creation of a
Persian ruling class, the bureaucracy and operation of the empire,
Persian diplomacy and foreign policy, and the reign of Darius III.
This innovative textbook: Offers a unique approach to Achaemenid
history, considering both archaeological and literary sources
Places primary Persian and Near Eastern sources in their cultural,
political, and historical context Examines material rarely covered
in non-specialist texts, such as royal inscriptions, Aramaic
documents, and recent archaeological finds Features a comprehensive
introduction to Achaemenid geography, Greek historiography, and
modern scholarship on the Persian War Part of the acclaimed
Blackwell History of the Ancient Worldseries, A History of the
Achaemenid Empire is a perfect primary textbook for courses in
Ancient History, Near Eastern Studies, and Classical Civilizations,
as well as an invaluable resource for general readers with interest
in the history of empires, particularly the first Persian empire or
Iranian civilization.
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