Xenophon on the Athenian Embassy to Susa (367 BC)

Our information on the negotiations of the year 367 derives mostly from Xenophon (Hellenica 7.1.33-38) and Plutarch (Pelopidas 30-31.1; Artox. 22.8-12). Xenophon’s account shows an anti-Theban bias; his information is of Athenian origin and could derive from the Athenian ambassador Leon. On the contrary, Plutarch’s account in the Life of Pelopidas shows a sharp pro-Theban bias. Xenophon’s information, although biased, appears to be of better quality. He offers a detailed account, with a strictly political statement; his account identifies the main lines of Theban hegemonic policy. Furthermore, Xenophon is the only source which provides us detailed information on the behaviour of the Athenian ambassadors. The historian contraposes the traitor Timagoras to Leon, member of the anti-Theban party, probably a supporter of the alliance between Athens and Sparta, as also Xenophon was (cf. Suda s.v. Timagoras).