The Enigmatic Xerxes A Portrait Of Uncertainty
Emperor Xerxes’ volatile temperament has been well-documented throughout history, with various episodes that capture his unpredictable moods. Among them is the notable encounter with the Lydian noble Pythius. As Xerxes marshaled his forces for the monumental invasion of Greece, Pythius not only committed all five of his sons to the Emperor’s army but also offered a generous portion of his own wealth to bolster the campaign’s resources. Struck by this display of loyalty, Xerxes initially responded with unexpected generosity, declining the financial contribution and instead lavishing Pythius with opulent gifts.
However, the relationship took a dark turn following a solar eclipse, which Pythius interpreted as a sinister portent.
Fearing for his family, he boldly approached Xerxes to request the exemption of his eldest son from military service. Xerxes’ reaction was one of fury and disdain for what he perceived as Pythius’ sudden lack of conviction. In a chilling display of cruelty and to make an example of Pythius, Xerxes commanded that his eldest son be executed and gruesomely bisected. As a stark reminder of the price of doubt, he ordered his legions to march through the parted remains of the young man as they set out to conquer Greece. This macabre spectacle underscored the extremes of Xerxes’ character—from the heights of imperial benevolence to the depths of vengeful wrath..