Persians (232-280)

Far from here, to the west where the last rays of our Lord the Sun set.

Can it then really be that my son had the keen desire to make this city his prey?

Yes, for then all Hellas would be subject to the King.

Does their army have such a multitude of men?

Yes, it is an army of such magnitude that it has caused great disaster for the Medes.

And what else have they besides? Do they have sufficient wealth in their homes?

Of silver they possess a veritable fountain, a treasure chest in their soil.

Is the bow-stretching arrow particularly suited to their hands?

Far from it; they have lances for close fight and shields that serve them for armor.

And who is set over them as shepherd and is master of their host?

Of no man are they called the slaves or vassals.

How then can they withstand the attack of an invading foe?

So well as to have destroyed Darius’ great and courageous host.

In truth, your words have given the fathers and mothers of those who are now on their way there dire food for thought.

No, rather I think that you will soon learn the truth of the matter. For here comes one who is beyond a doubt a Persian courier. He bears clear tidings of some issue, be it good or bad.

O cities of all the land of Asia,

O realm of Persia, and bounteous haven of wealth, at a single stroke all your plenteous prosperity has been shattered, and the flower of the Persians has fallen and perished! Ah, it is a terrible task to be the first to deliver news of disaster. And yet, Persians, I must relate the entirety of the calamity

—the whole barbarian host is lost.