Ancient History Essay

To what extent was Salamis the turning point of the Persian invasion of Greece?

To a large extent — Salamis broke Persian naval power and morale, forcing Xerxes' partial withdrawal, but full victory came only after Plataea and Mycale in 479 BCE.

What strategic advantage did the Greeks gain at Salamis?

Destroyed Persian naval dominance; forced Xerxes to retreat to Asia.

What did Herodotus say about Xerxes' retreat?

"He was afraid the Greeks might sail to the Hellespont and destroy the bridges."

How did Plutarch describe Salamis?

“The salvation not only of Athens but of all Greece.”

What does Peter Green say about Salamis?

It “robbed the Persian army of essential naval support” but didn’t end the invasion.

How did Salamis affect Greek morale and unity?

Boosted confidence, shattered Persian invincibility, reinforced alliance.

How did Themistocles change the Greeks’ outlook?

He “inspired confidence and daring where before there had been only fear.”

What does Herodotus say about Mardonius’ continued threat?

He “still believed he could bring Greece under the King’s yoke.”

What is Tom Holland’s view of Salamis?

“Salamis marked the end of Persian initiative, but not of Persian danger.”

Why were Plataea and Mycale necessary after Salamis?

They destroyed Persian land and naval forces, ending the invasion.

What does Herodotus call Plataea?

“The most glorious and memorable of all victories.”

What does Paul Cartledge say about the sequence of battles?

“Salamis set the stage,” but “Plataea delivered the knockout blow.”

Final judgement on Salamis as a turning point?

Major turning point in momentum and strategy, but not the final victory. Salamis enabled success, but victory required Plataea and Mycale.