The Memory of Cyrus the Great in the Achaemenid Period(Based on Michel Foucault's cultural theory)

Abstract

Cyrus the Great (559-530 BC) succeeded in transforming the Persians from a subjugated people into a powerful and sovereign people and formed the first great world empire. After his death, his successors were able not only to preserve his territory but also to expand the Achaemenid government to parts of Europe and Africa. The research method is descriptive and analytical, and the method of collecting materials is library-based and uses reliable historical and archaeological sources and references. After conquering the land of Babylon, Cyrus the Great ordered the writing of a tablet that is known today as the "Cyrus Cylinder". This cylinder mentions that Cyrus conquered Babylon without war and, after entering this land, gave freedom to everyone and created prosperity and comfort for the people. In addition, Cyrus issued an order to release the Jews who were living in captivity in Babylon and sent them to their hometown of Jerusalem. The research question is whether the opinion of many orientalists that Cyrus's dealings with the subjugated peoples, including the Babylonians and Jews, had a propaganda aspect and that Cyrus's purpose in mentioning justice and freedom in the Cyrus Cylinder was political, not humanitarian, is correct? The research hypothesis is that by studying the history of the Achaemenid period, we realize that Cyrus the Great was known among Iranians and non-Iranians for his justice and humanity. Therefore, what is mentioned in the Cyrus Cylinder and his dealings with the subjugated peoples were not a false and propaganda factor, but rather the result of real actions.