The bios eudaimon in Xenophon’s “Cyropaedia”

Abstract

The question of bios eudaimon takes an important position in Greek thought, as shown by Herodotus and in Plato’s Gorgias. Thus, it comes as no real surprise that it also plays a significant role in Xenophon’s Cyropaedia. However, the usual focus of modern scholars is mainly directed on the encounter of Cyrus with Croesus. The present article attempts to overcome the shortcomings of this approach by also exploring other episodes in Cyropaedia which refer directly or indirectly to the question of bios eudaimon. Apart from the encounter between Cyrus and Croesus, three other encounters will be examined: the brief exchange of opinions between Chrysantas and Cyrus; the dialogue between Cyrus and Cyaxares; the conversation between Pheraulas and the young Sacian; and the last speech of Cyrus. The analyses will elucidate that Xenophon by bios eudaimon implies a politically active life which is simultaneously directed to the welfare of others. Finally, a comparison with Herodotus’ and Plato’s views aims at exploring the similarities and differences between these authors with respect to the bios eudaimon.