
The Persians, Aeschylus' earliest surviving tragedy, holds a fascination both for readers of Greek drama and Greek history. Not only is it the earliest existing play in the Western tradition, it is drawn directly from the playwright's own experiences at the battle of Salamis,...


The Persians is a Greek tragedy written by Aeschylus in 472 BCE. The play is based on the Persian Wars, specifically the Battle of Salamis in 480 BCE, which was a decisive victory for the Greeks. The play opens with the arrival of a messenger from the Persian court, who brings...