[Herodotus2010] Herodotus Books 4 & 5 Discussion Questions

[Andre Stipanovic]

Dear all,
I am thoroughly enjoying the accounts of Persian expansion and contact
with the Greeks in Book 4.  Book 5 has the special treat of describing the
birth of democracy in Athens, somehow ironically nurtured in part by
surrounding tyrannies.  Oracles, intrigue, and seemingly eyewitness
accounts all flavor Book 5.  Darius is still on the Persian throne, but
the limits of Persian influence are being tested.
Here are some questions for you to ponder as you make your way through
books 4 & 5 in preparation for our next conference call, which will take
place on Monday, January 10, 2011.  As always, feel free to email the
group or blog a comment on our website if you like at:
http://readingodyssey.posterous.com/
happy reading and happy holidays,
Andre

Herodotus Discussion Questions – Books IV & V

1.  Greek coastal colonies on the Black Sea and northern Aegean may have
had substantial contact with the Scythians during and prior to
Herodotus’ time.  His account (4.1-82) shows similarities and
differences between Greeks and Scythians.  What similarites struck you as
particularly significant?  What differences?

2.  As invaders, the Persians are considered a formidable foe.  In Book
IV, how does Darius carry out the declaration of war against the
Scythians?  What is Darius really after?  How do the Scythians and their
neighbors prepare for the Persian invasion?  What might Herodotus be
foreshadowing with respect to the eventual Persian invasion of Greece?

3.  What is the reason for Persia to invade Scythia?  Libya?  What does
Persia stand to gain by invading Lybia?  To what extent are Greeks on both
sides involved in this invasion?

4.  Given that Ionians were willingly helping Darius in his invasion of
Scythia in Book IV, what are the conditions that lead to their revolt in
Book V?  What contrast between Greece and Persia might Herodotus be trying
to point out in 4.144 when Megabazos subjugates the Hellespont?  At what
point in either Book IV or Book V would you say the spark of animosity is
lit between Greece and Persia?

5.  What does Herodotus reveal about the state of Greek city-state
politics in Book V, especially between Sparta and Athens?  What role does
democracy play in relations between Greek city-states?  What dilemma does
Sparta find itself in regarding democracy?  What do other Greek
city-states think about the rise of democracy in Athens?

6.  In earlier books, Herodotus included different female types.  Do you
see a pattern so far in the book in how Herodotus represents women in his
narrative?

7.  What are your favorite stories, anecdotes or digressions from Books IV
& V?

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