Delve into the captivating history of the Persian Empire, the ancient world's first superpower, with this definitive new account. From the fabled palace-city of Persepolis, the Great Kings like Cyrus, Darius, and Xerxes governed a vast and diverse multicultural realm. This book uncovers the intricate dynamics of the Achaemenid dynasty, a family often fraught with internal power struggles and courtly intrigues. Moving beyond traditional Greek-centric narratives, it draws on original Achaemenid sources, including inscriptions, art, and recent archaeological discoveries, to present an authentic 'Persian Version' of this remarkable era.

Why You Should Read?

• Gain a fresh perspective on the Persian Empire, moving beyond biased Greek accounts to explore original Achaemenid sources and archaeological findings.
• Discover the complex political landscape and family dynamics of the Achaemenid monarchs, including their power struggles and courtly intrigues.
• Understand how the Great Kings governed the largest empire of antiquity, stretching from Libya to Pakistan, and its diverse multicultural population.
• Explore the grandeur of Persepolis and the daily lives of the Achaemenid rulers, offering a vivid picture of this ancient superpower.

About the Author

Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones is a distinguished Professor of Ancient History at Cardiff University, specializing in ancient Persia and Greece. His research focuses on the social, cultural, and political history of the Achaemenid Empire, drawing on a wide range of textual and archaeological evidence. He is known for his ability to bring ancient history to life, making complex topics accessible to a broad audience while maintaining scholarly rigor. Llewellyn-Jones has published numerous books and articles, establishing himself as a leading authority in the field of Persian studies.