Trivium
Curriculum/Persian Wars & Golden Age/Two Noble Spartan Youths
Persian Wars & Golden AgeGrade 3grammar Stage

Two Noble Spartan Youths

Darius died before he could avenge Marathon, but his son Xerxes vowed to continue. The Spartans, guilty of having killed Persian heralds, were told by an oracle they must atone. Two noble Spartan youths, Sperthias and Bulis, volunteered to go to Persia and offer their lives. Xerxes refused to kill them, saying he would not become as guilty as the Spartans. He released them, impressed by their courage.

The Text

What You'll Learn

1

Comprehension

Notes that Darius died before avenging Marathon

2

Cause & Consequence

Explains why the youths volunteered: to atone for their city's crime

3

Significance

Recognizes that Spartans valued honor more than life

How It Works

Your AI tutor will guide you through this text using the Socratic method. Instead of giving you answers, it asks questions that help you discover the meaning for yourself.

  • 1.Read the text carefully
  • 2.Answer the tutor's questions in your own words
  • 3.Progress through each stage as you demonstrate understanding
Start This Lesson

Free to try. No credit card required.