Mythical models : reflections of Iranian traditions in the classical accounts of Median and early Achaemenid royalty

Abstract

This study fills a gap in Achaemenid studies by evaluating possible relationships between the classical accounts of Median and early Achaemenid royalty, on the one hand, and Iranian mythical and legendary traditions, on the other. That Herodotus and other classical authors based their accounts on a sub-structure of Near Eastern traditions long has been recognized. However, the Iranian element has been neglected for various reasons, including the disparateness of the Iranian sources, which has prompted speculation that the Medes and Persians lacked familiarity with the relevant traditions. This study begins by reviewing evidence and past interpretations regarding the general proposition that Achaemenid oral traditions featured an intertwining of myth and history. Next comes an evaluation of evidence, primarily onomastic, indicating Median and Persian familiarity with variations of the myths and legends reflected in the extant sources. These findings suggest that a comparison of the classical sources to Iranian traditions is worthwhile. The applied methodology resembles that used in comparative mythology, with a focus on circumstances in which details found in later Iranian sources may be deemed likely to have existed in Achaemenid traditions. Three case studies identify parallels and possible dependence or interdependence between classical narratives and Iranian traditions: (1) Herodotus’ account of Deioces and tales of mythical royal founders, (2) the accounts of Cyrus and tales of dragon-slayers, and (3) the accounts of Darius’ coup and tales of dragon-slayers, as they relate to the principle of legitimate kingship. The case studies support the ancient authors’ claims to have drawn on Iranian traditions and underscore narrative elements that reflect Greek reinterpretation or embellishment. The findings of this study also shed light on the typology and development of the Iranian mythical and legendary traditions and provide possible scenarios for the Iranians’ puzzling amnesia regarding the Medes and early Achaemenids.