Anabasis, Part 1, no. 35, Part II summary

What happens

1. With nearby supplies exhausted, Xenophon takes guides from Trapezus and half the army against the Drilae, while the rest guard camp.
2. Light infantry cross a ravine and attack a stocked stronghold, but its defenses and narrow approach prevent both capture and easy withdrawal.
3. Xenophon brings the heavy infantry across, organizes an assault, and gains entry, only to discover resistance from an inner citadel.
4. The Greeks plunder outside the citadel, judge it impossible to capture, and face renewed attacks as they prepare to withdraw.
5. A burning house suggests an escape method, and Xenophon uses burning buildings and piled logs to shield the retreat.
6. The next day, Mysus and ten Cretans stage a false ambush while the army descends; despite pursuit and wounds, everyone reaches camp.

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What to notice

Xenophon recognizes how fire drives defenders away and deliberately repeats its effect. This decision creates space for the threatened troops to withdraw.

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