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The Persian Empire

By: John W. Lee, The Great Courses
Narrated by: John W. Lee
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Publisher's summary

For the past 2,500 years, we've heard about the Persian Empire as a decadent civilization run by despots, the villains who lost the Battle of Marathon and supplied the fodder for bad guys in literature and film. But it turns out this image is inaccurate. As recent scholarship shows, the Persian Empire was arguably the world's first global power- a diverse, multicultural empire with flourishing businesses and people on the move. The key is to look at the Persian Empire from the Persian's perspective. Over the span of 24 fascinating lectures, you'll take on the role of a history detective to discover the truth about this grand civilization.

You'll discover the key to the empire's success lay in its greatest rulers, each of whom played a critical role in shaping and strengthening a civilization we still remember today. But while the great kings were administering justice or waging wars, everyday Persians were just as important to the success of the empire.

You'll also learn about the empire's efficient communications network; the Persian economy and the workers and entrepreneurs who supported it; the role of women in the empire, especially the influence of royal women; and the daily cultural exchanges between the diverse peoples of the empire.

Professor Lee shows you a whole new history of the ancient world - a perspective largely unknown even by students of history. These lectures capture the people, the strength, the rise and the downfall of this great empire, revealing the complexity behind centuries of a previously one-sided history. Take this opportunity to complete your understanding of the ancient world and discover the humanity of the ancient Persians.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2012 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2012 The Great Courses
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What listeners say about The Persian Empire

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A fantastic course!

What a gem. An ideal balance of details and "big picture" ideas, masterfully presented. Lee is a great storyteller and is able to infect you with his admiration of this amazing culture and its legendary rulers.

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So fascinating!

The professor was very enthusiastic and I loved how he interwove Greek and Persian history so that you have a more complete view of both. Highly recommended!

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Regarding Iran.

The noun IRAN is used in Shahnameh written by Firdausi e Tosi. More than 700 years ago. Iran is not a recent name for my Birth country.
Hilma is a hallucinogenic emulsion of particular herbal roots.

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Absolutely Superb!

This course was amazing. As a historian myself I was captivated, mesmerized, engaged and learned along the way. Dr. Lee is so knowledgeable and narrates the history in such a way you don’t want it to ever stop. I valued every moment of these lectures and hope that everyone can listen. Thank you so much.

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Best introduction to Persian history...

The narrative is engaging... And educating... Without being didactic or boring...

The content is just right...

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A rich history revealed

Professor John W. Lee mentioned that the Persian Empire is presented as the enemy by more commonly accepted Greek historians several times in this course, and proceeds to explore its history on its own terms.

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Great Story of a Mighty Empire!

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to how the mighty persian empire rose and fell. Professor Lee does an excellent job of painting a vivid picture of the dynamics of the ancient empire and keeping the journey interesting at the same time. He does a remarkable job making the Persians actually human in spite of the negative stereotypes they are labeled with.

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Amazing

great information presented by a world-class professor. I thoroughly enjoyed this course and highly recommend it. can't wait to listen to the next one.

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Excellent insight

Professor John Lee presents the history of Persian empire with care and compassion. His deep reliance on historical evidence and methodology adds meaning to the course

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Very Informative

We'll written, oodles and oodles of good informative facts. I enjoyed greatly. will relisten to this narrative

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