The Persian Expedition (Penguin Classics) - Xenophon

“The Persian Expedition”, also known as Anabasis, is one of the most thrilling narratives to survive from antiquity. Written by Xenophon, a soldier, historian, and student of Socrates, this firsthand account recounts the incredible journey of 10,000 Greek mercenaries hired to support a Persian prince in his bid for the throne.

When the prince is killed in battle, the Greeks find themselves stranded deep within enemy territory—surrounded, leaderless, and far from home. Xenophon emerges as a key figure in their survival, leading the troops through harsh terrain, hostile forces, and impossible odds.

A work of military strategy, leadership, resilience, and personal growth, The Persian Expedition is both a historical classic and a timeless tale of adventure and courage.

Main Themes of the Book

• Leadership under pressure and moral decision-making
• Survival and unity in hostile conditions
• Greek-Persian cultural interactions
• The nature of empire, loyalty, and mercenary warfare
• Practical philosophy and Socratic influence in action

Reasons to Read this book from ''Penguin Classics'' series

• A real-life survival epic from ancient Greece
• Written by a soldier-philosopher who lived it
• Insightful on leadership, morale, and group dynamics
• Essential for students of history, classics, and political theory
• Combines narrative drive with philosophical undertones

Xenophon’s “The Persian Expedition” is more than a historical account—it’s a timeless manual on leadership, endurance, and the will to overcome. It blends gripping storytelling with philosophical insight and remains a foundational text for readers of history, strategy, and classical literature.