Join the Departments of Classics and Political Science on Thursday, Nov. 5, at 4.15 p.m. in Tomsich Hall 101 for a lecture by Emily Davis '19, assistant professor of political science at Louisiana State University.
Even when they fail to deliver on their promises, charismatic leaders often remain appealing. Xenophon’s "Education of Cyrus" helps illuminate why. The Athenian writer Xenophon portrays Cyrus the Great, the first emperor of ancient Persia, as a charismatic leader who, at the start of his rule, elicits intense gratitude from his people by persuading them that he will always care more for them than for himself. They therefore assume his leadership is and will be good for them — that he, unfettered by ordinary selfishness, easily understands justice and will always act accordingly. For his people, Cyrus becomes a godlike figure whose generosity must be repaid and whose decisions must be correct. Consequently, their belief in him endures even when his decrees harm them. Xenophon’s depiction of Cyrus suggests that charismatic leaders’ attraction lies not only in their people’s desire for benefits, but also in the sense of moral obligation that these leaders evoke, which creates a dangerously uncritical devotion.
Sponsored by Faculty Lectureships and the Departments of Classics and Political Science