Origins & Early Life

Harpagus, also known as Harpagos (Ancient Greek Ἅρπαγος; Akkadian: Arbaku), was a Median general during the 6th century BC, credited by Herodotus as having put Cyrus the Great on the throne through his defection during the Battle of Pasargadae. According to Herodotus' Histories, Harpagus was a member of the Median royal house who served King Astyages, the last king of Media. When word reached Astyages that Cyrus was gathering his forces, he ordered Harpagus, as his primary general, to lead the army against Cyrus. After a three-day battle on the plain of Pasargadae, Harpagus took his revenge for the death of his son at the hands of Astyages when he changed his allegiance on the battlefield in favour of Cyrus, resulting in Astyages' defeat and the formation of the Persian Empire.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Herodotus accounts for the change in Harpagus' support to a version of the cannibal feast of Thyestes. He reports that Astyages, after having a dream that his daughter, Mandane, would give birth to a king who would overthrow him, ordered Harpagus to expose the child at birth. Harpagus, reluctant to spill his own royal blood, gave the child (Cyrus) to a shepherd named Mitradates, who...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

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