Xenophon
Xenophon (c. 430 - 354 BC) was an ancient Greek historian, soldier, and philosopher, a student of Socrates whose vivid, readable writings span history, memoir, philosophy, and practical advice. His clear, engaging style has made him one of the most accessible of all classical authors.
His most famous work, the Anabasis, is the thrilling first-hand account of how ten thousand Greek mercenaries, stranded deep in hostile Persian territory, fought their way home to the sea — one of history's greatest adventure narratives. He also wrote the Memorabilia, a defence and portrait of his teacher Socrates, the Hellenica (a history of Greece), and works on horsemanship, household management, and leadership.
A man of action as well as letters, Xenophon combined a soldier's practical eye with a philosopher's interest in character and leadership.
His prose is clear and lively. Our editions present it cleanly for modern readers. Read a selection free, and read or listen with a membership.
Xenophon in the library · 3 works
Anabasis
soon
soon
Audiobooks by Xenophon
Every Xenophon title in the library is also a complete, professionally produced audiobook — 3 audiobooks in total. Members listen free on any device. Browse the audiobook library →
Frequently asked questions about Xenophon
What did Xenophon write?
Xenophon wrote across many genres. His major works include the Anabasis (his account of the march of the Ten Thousand), the Hellenica (a history of Greece), the Memorabilia (recollections of Socrates), and the Cyropaedia (a semi-fictional education of Cyrus the Great). He also wrote practical treatises on subjects like horsemanship and estate management. The Anabasis is his most famous work.
What is the Anabasis about?
The Anabasis tells the extraordinary true story of ten thousand Greek mercenary soldiers who marched deep into the Persian Empire, were stranded after their employer was killed in battle, and had to fight their way back home across hundreds of miles of hostile territory. Xenophon, who helped lead the retreat, tells it as a gripping first-hand adventure. It is one of the great survival and leadership narratives of history.
Where should I start with Xenophon?
The Anabasis is the best starting point — an exciting, accessible adventure story and his most famous work. The Memorabilia is a good next step if you're interested in Socrates. His practical works, like the one on household management, are short and surprisingly readable. Begin with the Anabasis.
What was Xenophon's connection to Socrates?
Xenophon was a devoted student of the philosopher Socrates, and along with Plato he is one of our two main sources for Socrates' life and teaching. His Memorabilia defends Socrates against the charges that led to his execution and portrays him as a wise, practical moral teacher. Xenophon's picture of Socrates is more down-to-earth than Plato's.
Is Xenophon hard to read?
Xenophon is famous for his clear, simple, and direct style, which makes him one of the most accessible ancient Greek authors — his Anabasis has long been used to teach beginners the language. The main barriers are unfamiliar names and older translations. A clear modern edition makes his lively writing very approachable.
When did Xenophon live?
Xenophon lived from around 430 to 354 BC, a contemporary and student of Socrates in classical Athens. He took part in the famous march of the Ten Thousand around 401 BC and wrote his histories and treatises in later life. He was both a man of action and a prolific author.
Where can I read Xenophon for free?
Xenophon's works are in the public domain, and older translations are freely available. Some are formal in style. Here you can read a selection free in clear modern English, and read or listen with a membership.
Read Xenophon free
Every restored edition — eBook and audiobook — is included with membership. Cancel anytime, one click · 30-day money-back guarantee.
Become a member →