In the twelve brief chapters of this volume, W. offers an introduction to Achaemenid Persia aimed at non-academics. A specialist in Elamite and Achaemenid history who also teaches Classics courses, W. is an ideal author for this synthesis.
W. begins by considering the interpretative challenges of Achaemenid history, above all the need to rely on outsider accounts for a basic narrative framework, and surveying the Mediterranean–Near Eastern context in which the Persians arose. Against this background he traces the empire's development from its formation under Cyrus and Cambyses to Darius III's defence against Macedonian invasion. Most chapters proceed chronologically by king, with a focus on politics and war. Two thematic chapters – one on courts, administration, armies and communications, another on imperial capitals, royal ideology and religion – treat these key aspects of the empire.
W. condenses an enormous amount of scholarship into a cogent, readable narrative. He is especially adept at explaining the debates over complex issues such as the nature of Median power, the empire's provincial organisation and the character of Achaemenid religion. He emphasises careful scrutiny of the Greek literary evidence with which novice readers may be more familiar and furnishes incisive introductions to lesser-known Achaemenid documents: royal inscriptions, the Persepolis tablets, the Murashu archive and the correspondence of the satrap Arshama. Where multiple sources exist, for example concerning Darius I's accession to the throne, W. skilfully compares them. He provides a helpful glossary of Greek authors accompanied by a guide to cryptic scholarly citations such as A2Sd§2. A well-chosen array of maps, plans and photographs complements the text.
The compact format of the volume makes for a number of trade-offs, as W. acknowledges. Some readers may wish for less event history and more discussion of the empire's social, cultural and economic life. Vivid archaeological material such as the Tatarlı tomb paintings might better have been showcased in the text rather than left in the notes. A few of the photographs are printed too small to show sufficient detail. Readers interested in further exploration may not find enough guidance in the spare endnotes and bibliography. There are a few misprints, noticeably in proper names (Intraphernes, p. 93; Theopompous, p. 165; Pharnabzus, p. 190) and in transliterated terms (dāra for dôra, p. 99).
W.'s book will appeal to a broad audience, especially in the modestly priced paperback edition. It will make an outstanding text for undergraduate courses in Greek and Achaemenid history. Scholars unfamiliar with recent developments in Achaemenid studies will find the book a handy overview, and anyone who teaches ancient world history or western civilisation surveys should read it. The book will be an invaluable resource for middle and high school teachers, curriculum developers and others looking for an antidote to the stereotypes of Achaemenid Persia that unfortunately persist in U.S. popular culture. Authoritative, accessible and affordable, Ancient Persia is highly recommended.
