Episode #227 - What is the Spartan Mirage? (Part III)

In this episode of "Our Fake History," Sebastian Major continues his exploration of the Spartan Mirage, a collection of myths and idealizations surrounding ancient Sparta. He debunks common misconceptions about Spartan society, including the myth of Lycurgus, land equality, and the Agoge education system. The episode then focuses on the Battle of Thermopylae, challenging the popular narrative of a heroic last stand by 300 Spartans against a massive Persian army. Major argues that the battle's significance has been exaggerated and that the Spartans' actions were not as virtuous or impactful as often portrayed, highlighting the contributions of other Greek forces and questioning the Spartans' motives. The episode aims to dismantle the romanticized image of Sparta and reveal a more complex and nuanced historical reality.