The Paradigmatic Individual

Much attention has been given to Xenophon’s interest in the ideal field commander, especially since the important work of Breitenbach. Iphicrates, the Athenian admiral, stands in direct contrast with Mnasippus; since his mission is to defend Corcyra and defeat Mnasippus, since furthermore the Corcyraeans are able on their own to accomplish these goals, and since nonetheless Iphicrates’ mission to Corcyra is described in careful detail, this conclusion seems secure. Jason of Pherae’s preparations for the Pythian Games demonstrate his power; he orders great numbers of sacrificial animals from his client states and plans to preside over the games himself. Furthermore, he orders the Thessalians to muster at the time of the festival, ostensibly to make a ‘gathering’ for the god and for himself to conduct the games. Jason’s death is in part due to his coveting the wealth of Delphi, for the sentence is clearly linked to the oracle immediately preceding.

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