The Memory and Legacy of Cyrus the Great in the Achaemenid Period (Based on Michel Foucault’s Cultural Theory)

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of History, Lorestan University, Lorestan, Iran.

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 data is library-based drawing on 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 many orientalists’ opinion 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. 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.

Keywords


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Volume 18, Issue 67 - Serial Number 67
Winter 2026
Spring 2026
Pages 95-127

  • Receive Date 07 August 2025
  • Revise Date 14 June 2026
  • Accept Date 19 July 2026
  • Publish Date 22 May 2026