Histories · Character
Smerdis
A Magian priest who, after the real Smerdis is quietly killed, sits on the Persian throne in his name and rules until the truth leaks out.
supporting
Also known as the Magian Smerdis, this Magian Smerdis
First appearance: book iii thaleia
As a supporting figure in Histories, Smerdis is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.
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The historical Smerdis is Cyrus' son, murdered on Cambyses' orders before the Egyptian campaign; the man who takes his place is a Magian who happens to share his name and his looks. For months he governs Persia from…
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See Smerdis in book iii thaleiaCharacter Web
11 connectionsA slice of how Smerdis sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Other
Character groups
- Diverse figures from the Histories
- Protagonist
- Kings and commanders of the Greco-Persian Wars
+6 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Closing
This passage marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of the Hellene…
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