Xenophon

Xenophon was born to an aristocratic family in Athens, Greece, during a period of significant political and cultural activity.

Xenophon begins his early education, focusing on literature, philosophy, and physical training, typical for Athenian youth of his class.

Xenophon becomes a student of Socrates, one of the most influential philosophers of the time, and begins to engage deeply with philosophical ideas.

The Peloponnesian War ends with the defeat of Athens by Sparta. Xenophon, now a young man, witnesses the political and social upheaval in his city.

Xenophon joins the 'Ten Thousand,' a group of Greek mercenaries, to participate in the Persian Expedition to overthrow the Persian king Artaxerxes II.

After the death of Cyrus the Younger, Xenophon emerges as a leader among the Greek mercenaries during their famous retreat, chronicled in his work 'Anabasis.'

Xenophon's mentor, Socrates, is put on trial and executed in Athens. Xenophon, deeply affected, begins to write about his teacher and their philosophical discussions.

Xenophon completes 'Anabasis,' his account of the Persian Expedition and the retreat of the Ten Thousand, which becomes a seminal work in ancient military literature.

Xenophon, now a political exile from Athens, settles in Sparta, where he continues his writing and philosophical endeavors, influenced by the Spartan way of life.

Xenophon begins writing 'Hellenica,' a history of Greece from 411 to 362 BCE, which continues where Thucydides' 'History of the Peloponnesian War' leaves off.

Xenophon completes 'Cyropaedia,' a biographical account of Cyrus the Great, which includes political and military lessons and is influential in later Western thought.

Xenophon is allowed to return to Athens, where he continues to write and engage in philosophical discussions, though he remains somewhat of an outsider.

Xenophon writes 'Memorabilia,' a defense of Socrates and an account of his teachings, which provides valuable insights into Socratic thought.

Xenophon composes 'Oeconomicus,' a dialogue on household management and agricultural practices, reflecting his practical and philosophical interests.

Xenophon dies in Athens, leaving behind a rich legacy of historical, philosophical, and literary works that continue to influence Western thought.