The Life and Death of Hannibal, Part 2
THE LIFE & DEATH OF EPAMINONDAS, THE GREAT CAPTAINE OF THE THEBANS.
THe Father of Epaminondas was Polymnis, His Parentage and Education.who was descended of one of the most ancient, and renowned Famelies amongst the Thebans, the most part of which Noble linage had upon their Bodies for a naturall Birthmark, the resemblance of a Snake. This Polimnis had two only Sons, Caphisias, and Epaminondas, whom he educated very carefully, and had them very well instructed in all the liberall Arts, and honest Sciences: especially Epaminondas, who had the more stayed witt, and Was most inclined to Virtue,His parts. desirous to learne, humble, obedient, and won…erfull docible: and of one Dyonisius he learned to be very skilfull in Singing, and Musick. And for Philosophy it happened well for him that he fell into an excellent Masters hands by this means.
The Colleges of the Pythagorian Phylosophers that were dispersed through the Cities of Italy, were banished by the faction of the Cylonians, yet such as still kept together, met in a Councel at Metapont to consider of their affairs: But some seditious Persons rose up against them, and set the House wherein they were on fire, and burnt them all; onelyonly Phylolaus and Lysis, being lusty young men, escaped through the fire. Phylolaus fled into the Country of the Lucanians, and resided there with his Friends: But Lysis got to Thebes, where Polymnis intertained him, intreating him to undertake the Tuition of his Son Epaminondas, who, though he was but a young Boy, yet was he of good capacity, and of very good Hopes. This Phylosopher accordingly applyed himself to manure this noble and quick wit of Epaminondas, and in a short time made him perfect in all Sciences and Virtue, so that it was hard to find a more wise, grave, and virtuous Person than he was,
He exercises and studies.When he was but fifteen years of age, he gave himself to all manner of exercises of the Body, as to run, wrestle, use his Weapons, and all feats of Arms: and having quickly attained to skill in these, he applied himself to his Book. He was naturally silent, fearfull to speak, but never a weary to hear and learn; whereupon Spintharus, the Tarentine, being familiarly acquainted with him in Thebes, used to say, that he never knew any man that knew so much, and spake so little as Epaminondas. If he fell into any company that discoursed of Philosophy, or of State matters, he would never leave them, till the matter propounded was at an end. He was of a pleasant disposition, and so witty that he could break a jeast as well as any man.
Lysis after he had lived long in Thebes, died, and was honourably buried by his Scholar Epaminondas. His Discourse with a Phylosopher.Not long after, Theanor, one of the Pythagorians in Sicily, was sent to bring Lysis thither, but when he came to Thebes, he found him dead and buried, therefore going to Epaminondas, after salutations, he told him that his companions, who were rich, willed him to give Polymnis, and his children, a good summe of mony in recompence of that curteous entertainment which they had given to Lysis: Epaminondas, after pleasant excuses made, told him that none could be received, saying further, Jason, a Captaine of the Thessalians thought that I gave him a rude and uncivil answer, when he, having earnestly entreated me to receive a good summe of Gold, I sent him word that he did me wrong, and began to make War with me: for that he, aspiring to make himself a Lord, would corrupt me with mony, who am a plain Citizen of a free Town, and living under the Law. But for thee Theanor, I commend thy good will, because its honest and virtuous, but I tell thee thou bringest Physick to them that are not sick. Admit that thou, hearing we had been in Wars, hadst brought us Armes to defend us, and when on the contrary thou hadst found us quiet, and at peace with all our neighbours, thou wouldst not have thought fit to bestow these Armes, and leave them with those that had no need of them. Even so, thou art come to relive our poverty as though it were a burden to us, whereas on the contrary, its an easy and pleasant thing to us to carry, and we are glad we have it in our Houses amongst us, and therefore we have no need of Armes▪ or mony against that which doth us no hurt at all. But tell thy brethren that they use their goods very honestly: and also that they have Friends here which use their Poverty as well: and as for the intertainment▪ and burial of Lysis, he hath himself fully recompenced us, having taught us, amongst many other good lessons, not to be afraid of Poverty, nor to be grieved to see it amongst us. Theanor having made some reply about the good and evill of Riches, and told him that as Poverty was not evil in it self, so neither was Riches to be had in contempt and dispised: No truly (said Epaminondas) yet considering with my self that we have a World of covetous desires, some naturall that are born with us, and bred in our flesh by the lusts pertaining to it: Others strange to us, grounded upon vain opinions, which taking setling, and becoming an habit in us by tr…ct of time, and long use through evil education, oftentimes do draw us down, and weigh our Souls with more force and violence, than those that be connaturall to us. For reason, through daily exercise of virtue, and practice thereof, is a meanes to free us from many of those things that are borne, and bred with us. Yet we must use continuall force and opposition against our concupisences which are strangers to us, to quench them, and by all possible meanes to represse, and subdue them in us.
And when this is done, there is also (said he) an exercise of justice against greedy Covetousnesse, and a desire of getting, which is not, not to go rob our neighbours Houses, nor, not to rob men by the high way, nor not to betray our Friends, or Country for mony: for such an one opposeth, not covetousnesse, but possibly, its Law, or feare that bridleth his covetous desire to offend: But that man that ofttimes willingly abstaines from just gaines, he it is that by exercise keeps himself far from unjust, and unlawfull taking of mony. For it is impossible in great pleasures that are wicked and dangerous, the Soul should contain it self from lusting after them, unlesse formerly, being oft at his choise to use them, he had contemned them. Its not easy to overcome them, nor to refuse great Riches when they are offered, unlesse a man long before hath killed in him this covetous desire of getting, the which, besides many other habits and actions, is still greedily bent shamefully to gaine, pleasiing himself in the pursuit of Injustice, hardly forbearing to wrong an other so he may benefit himself. But that man that disdaines to receive gifts from his Friends, and refuseth Presents offered him by Kings, and that hath rejected the bounty of Fortune, puting by all covetous desires of glistering Treasures laid before him, he shall never be tempted to do that which is unjust, nor shall his mind be troubled, but he will content himself quietly to do any thing that is honest, having an upright heart, finding nothing in it but that which is good and commendable. Yet was the Life of Epaminondas far mor excellent than his discourse, as will appear by that which follows.
Diomedon, the Cizicenian, at the request of Artaxerxes, King of Persia, promised to winne Epaminondas to take the Persians part. To effect this, he came to Thebes, and brought a great masse of Gold with him, and with three Thousand Crowns of it, he bribed a young man called Mycethus, who was greatly beloved by Epaminondas. This young man went to him and told him the occasion of the other mans coming to Thebes: But D…omedon being present, Epaminondas said to him, I have no need of mony: If the King of Persia wish well to the Thebans, I am at his service without taking one penny:His contempt of Riches. If he hath any other meaning, he hath not Gold nor Silver enough wherewith to corrupt me: For I will not sell the love which I bear to my Country for all the Gold in the World: and as for thee that dost now tempt me, not knowing me, but judging me like unto thy self, I pardon thee for this time, but get thee quickly out of the City lest thou corrupt others, having failed to prevail over me: and for thee Mycethus, deliver him his mony again, which if thou dost not presently, I will send thee before a Justice.
Hereupon Diomedon besought him that he would let him go away in safety, and carry that with him which he brought thither: Yea (said Epaminondas) but it shall not be for thy sake, but for my honour-sake, lest thy Gold and Silver being taken from thee, some man should accuse me that I had a share in that privately which I had refused openly. Saying further, whither wouldst thou that I should cause thee to be conveyed? To Athens, said Diomedon: This was done accordingly, and he had a strong convoy sent with him, and that he might not be troubled by the way, betwixt the Gates of Thebes and the Haven wherein he was to imbark himself, Epaminondas gave Chabrias the Athenian charge of him, that he should see him safe at his jorneys end.
His Poverty.Though Epaminondas was very Poor, yet would he never take any thing of his Citizens or Friends: and being so inured to poverty, he was enabled to bear it the more patiently by his study of Philosophy. For on a time, having the leading of an Army of the Thebans into the Country of Peloponnesus, he borrowed five Crownes of a Citizen for the defraying of his necessary chatges in that Journey. Pelopidas being a man of great wealth and his very good Friend, could never possibly force upon him any part of his Goods, but he rather learned of him to love Poverty. For Epaminondas taught him to think it an honour to go plainly in his Apparrel, to eat moderately, to take paines willingly, and in War to fight lustily. Yet when he had occasion to relieve others, he would make bold with his Friends goods, which in such cases were common to him. If any of his Citizens were taken Prisoners by the Enemy, or if any Friend of his had a Daughter to be married,His Charity. and was not able to bestow her, he used to call his Friends together, and to assesse every one of them at a certain summe, after which he brought him before them who was to receive the mony, and told him how much every one had bestowed upon him, that he might returne thanks to them all.
But once he went far beyond this: For he sent a poor Friend of his to a Rich Citizen of Thebes to ask of him six hundred Crownes, and to tell him that Epaminondas desired him to let him have them. The Citizen being amazed at his demand, went to Epaminondas to know what he meant to charge him so deeply, as to make him to give six hundred Crowns to the other? It is (said Epaminondas) because this man, being an honest man, is poor, and thou who hast robbed the Commonwealth of much, art rich.
His Sobriety.He lived so soberly, and was such an enemy to all superfluity and excesse, that being on a time invited to Supper to one of his Neighbours, when he saw great preparation of dainty meats, made dishes, and perfumes, he said unto him, I thought thou hadst made a Sacrifice by this excesse and superfluity, and so immediatly went his way. The like also he spake of his own Table, saying, that such an Ordinary, was never guilty of Traytors, and Treason. On a time being at a Feast with some of his Companions, he drank Vinegar, and when they asked him what he meant by it, and whether he drank it for his health? I know not (said he) but this I am sure of, it puts me in remembrance how I live at home. Now it was not that his stomach was an enemy to dainty meats, or that he lived so penuriously at home, for he was marvelous noble minded: But he did it, that by his strict and unreprovable life, he might bridle and restraine many insolencies and disorders which then raigned amongst the Thebans, and to reduce them to the former temperance of their Ancestors.
Upon a time, a Cook giving up an account to him and his Fellows of their ordinary expences for certain dayes, he could find fault with nothing but the quantity of Oyle that was spent: which his Companions marvelling at; Tush (said he) it is not the expence which offends me, but because we have powred in so much Oyle into our Bodies. The City of Thebes upon an occasion made a publick Feast, where they were very merry, and jolly: But on the Contrary, Epaminondas went up and down without Oyle and perfumes, or decked with brave apparrell, seeming very sad: Some of his Familiar Friends meeting him in this posture, and wondering at him, asked him why he walked so alone,His Vigilance. and ill apparrelled through the City? Because (said he) you may in the meane time freely and safely drink your selves drunk, and make merry, taking thought for nothing.
His modesty also was such, that it would in no wise suffer him to seek advancement, but on the contrary he withdrew himself from Government, that he might with the more quiet apply himself to the study of Philosophy. It happened upon a time that the Lacedemonians intreated aide of the Thebans, who at that time were in League with them, and acordingly they sent them certain Foot Companies: at which time Epaminondas being about thirty five years old, Armed himself and went along with them. At this time it was, that that intimate Friendship began betwixt Pelopidas and him, which continued even to the end of their lives. These two being in a Battel the one by the other against the Arcatians, whom they had in front against them in the plaines of Mantinea, it fell out that one of the points of the Battel of the Lacedemonians in which they were, retired, and many fled: But these two resolved rather to dy than fly, and accordingly they stood to it gallantly,His Valor. till Pelopidas being wounded in seven places, fell down upon a heap of dead Bodies. Then did Epaminondas (though he took him for dead) step resolutly before him to defend his Body and Armes, he alone fighting against many, resolving rather to die in the place than to leave Pelopidas amongst the dead men, until that himself being thrust into the breast with a Pike, and wounded in the Arme with a Sword, was ready to faint: at which time Providence so ordered it, that King Agesipolis came on with the other point of the Battel, and saved them both.
Not long after the Lacedemonians by a stratagem, won the strong Castle of Thebes called Cadmaea, and put a strong Garrison into it, and gave the Government of the City of Thebes unto Archias, Philippus, and Leontidas, authors of all the mischief:Tyran's in Thebes. whereupon, to avoid their Tyranny, Pelopidas, and many others were fain to save themselves by flight, upon which they were banished by sound of Trumpet. But as for Epaminondas they as yet said nothing to him, but let him alone in the City: for he was contemned as a man of no account, because he was so much given to his Book: and if he should have any mind to stir against them, yet they judged he could could do nothing because of his Poverty.
Whilest Pelopidas and his Companions were at Athens, they laid a plot to free Thebes from those Tyrants: But Epaminondas not making a shew of any thing, had devised an other way to effect it, by raising the hearts and courages of the young men of the City. For when they went out to play, and exercise themselves, he alwayes found out a way to make them wrestle with the Lacedomonians; and when he saw the Lacedomonians throw them, and give them shrewd falls, they being the stronger, he would prvately rebuke the Thebans and tell them, that it was a shame for them to suffer the Lacedomonians to set their feet upon their throats for want of courage, who yet were not half so strong, and boiste…ous as themselves were. All▪ this while Pelopidas and his followers went on in their Plot,His prudence. and had such good success, that one night they got privily into the City of Thebes and met at Charons House about forty eight in number. Epaminondas knew all this well enough, and at night some took him aside and endeavoured to perswade him to joyn with them in delivering their City from these Tyrants, to whom he answered, that he had taken order with his Friends, and Gorgidas, to put themselves into a readiness upon any such occasion, but for his own part he would not have a hand in putting any of his Citizens to death, unless they were legally condemned: yet (said he) if you will make an attempt for the delivery of the City so as that it be without murther or blood shed, I will joyn with you with all my heart: But if you will persevere in your former determination, pray you let me alone, pure, and not defiled with the blood of my Citizens, that being blameless I may take hold of another occasion which may tend more to the good of the common wealth. For the murthers that will be committed in this way, cannot be contained within any reasonable bounds. I know indeed that Pherecid…s, and Pelopidas will especially set upon the Authors of the Tyranny: but …, and S…mi…das, being fierce and Cholerick men taking the liberty of the night, will never sheath their swords, till they have filled the whole City with murther, and slain many of the chief Citizens. Besides, its very convenient for the People of Thebes, that some be left free, and blamelesse of these murthers, and guiltlesse of all that should be done in the fury of this action.
Notwithstanding all that was said, the enterprise was executed,The Tyrants slain. and the Tyrants put to death, the City was restored to her ancient liberty, the Castle of Cadmaea was rendred up by composition, and Lysandrad…s, the Lacedemonian, and other Commanders that were in it, were suffered safely to depart, with their goods and Souldiers. This was the occasion of the long Wars which followed between the Lacedomonians and Thebans, with whom the Athenians joyned in League.
Epaminondas still applyed himself to his Book: yet at last he was put forwards by Pammenes, His Modesty.a chief man amongst the Thebans, and he began to follow the Wars very eagerly, and in divers encounters gave good proof of his prudence, hardinesse, and valour, insomuch as by degrees he attained to the highest charges of Government in the Commonwealth: and his Citizens, who before made small account of him till he was fourty years old,He is advanced to Honour. after, when they knew him better, they trusted him with their Armies, and he saved the City of Thebes, that was like to be undone, yea, and freed all Greece from the servitude of the Lacedemonians, making his virtue, as in a cleer light, to shine with Glory, shewing the effects when time served.
Upon a time Agesilaus, King of Lacaedemon entered into Boeotia with an Army of twenty thousand Foot, and five thousand Horse, wherewith he harrased and spoiled all the plain Country, and presented Battel to the Thebans in the open Fields, which yet they would not accept of, finding themselves the weaker: Howbeit, they defended themselves so well by the assistance of the Athenians, and the wise conduct of Epaminondas and Pelopidas, that they caused Agesilaus to return home with his Army. But when he was gone, the Thebans went with their Companies before the City of Thespies, The Spartans beaten.which they surprized, and put to the Sword two hundred of the Garrison, and afterwards returned back with their Army to Thebes; and P…aebidas, the Lacedemonian, who was then Governour of that City, sallye… out of the Town, and charged upon the Thebans in their retreat, who intertained him so hotly, that he lost five hundred of his men, and himself was slain in the fight.
Not long after, the Lacedemonians returned with their former Army to make War with the Thebans, who having seized upon certain straights, and places of advantage, so blocked up the way, that they could not over run the Country, and spoile it as they had done before; yet did Agesilaus so molest, and trouble them, that at last it came to a main Battel that held long, and was very cruel:A Battel. and though at the first Agesilaus had the better, yet the Thebans charged him so furiously, that at the length he himself was wounded and forced to retire, being well paid for teaching the Thebans Millitary Discipline. And this was the first time that the Thebans knew themselves to be as strong and lusty as the Lacedemonians, whereupon they Triumphed in signe of Victory, and from that time forward, they grew more couragious to make head against the Enemy, and to present them battel. But that which most encouraged them, was, the presence of Epaminondas, who counselled, commanded, and executed very wisely, valiantly, and with great successe.
At another time they went with a great number of chosen men before the City of Orobomene, where yet they prevailed not, because there was a strong Garrison of the Lacedemonians that sallied out upon them, and the fight was very sharp betwen them: yet, though the Lacedemonians were far more in number,The Spartans beaten. the Thebans gave them the overthrow, which never happened to them before. For all other Nations thought that they had done excellent well, if with a far greater number they had overcome a small number of the Lacedemonians. But this Victory, and an other, which fell out shortly after under the conduct of Pelopidas, did so lift up and encourage the Thebans, that they became more famous than … were before▪
The year following, Artaxerxes King of Persia, intending to make War against Aegypt, and therein to intertain diverse strangers, laboured to make Peace amongst the Grecians, in hope that they, being at Peace amongst themselves would be the more willing to have Souldiers leavied amongst them. For which end he sent Ambassadours to all the Townes of Greece, to preswade and intreat them to be at Peace amongst themselves. The Greeks were very willing to harken hereto, being wearied on all sides with such long Wars, and so were easily drawn to make Peace;Peace among the Greeks. wherein it was especially agreed, and concluded, that all the Cities of Greece should be free, and use their own Lawes: and Commissioners were sent abroad to withdraw all the Garrisons where any were kept. Unto this the Thebans only refused to agree, that every Town should severally capitulate for it, requesting that the Towns in the Country of Boeotia should be comprehended under the City of Thebes: but the Athenians mightily opposed themselves against this, and Calistratus, one of their Orators, made a notable Oration about it before all the States of Greece. Epaminondas on the contrary, made an excellent and vehement speech in defence of the right of the Thebans, insomuch as this controversy was left undecided, and the Treaty of Peace was universally agreed to amongst all the other Grecians, The Thebans are excepted.the Thebans only excepted, who were not comprised in it.
At this time the Athenians, and Lacedemonians, who had long contended amongst themselves about the Principality of Greece, now agreed, that the one should command by Sea, and the other by Land: And therefore they could not endure that the Thebans should aspire to be chief, which made them seek to dismember the other Towns of Boeotia from them, the rather, for that the Thebans, being strong and lusty of Body, and much encouraged by their late Victories over the Lacedemonians, would now contend with them for their superiority, having a wonderfull confidence in the Wisdom and Prowesse of their Captaines, especially of Epaminondas.
Matters resting thus doubtfull, the Citizens of Plataees, a Town of Boeotia, were desirous to enter into League with the Athenians, promising that if they would send them Souldiers, they would put the Town into their hands: But the Governours of Boeotia having intelligence of it, and being desirous to prevent the Athenians, brought a party of Souldiers against it, who came before Plataees before the Citizens heard any newes of them, so that part of them were surprised in the Field by the Horsmen, and the rest fled into the Town: where having no aid, they were faign to accept of such tearmes as it pleased the Thebans to grant them, which were, presently to depart the Town with bag and baggage,Plataees destroyed. and never to returne again into the Country of Boeotia. Then did they raze the City to the ground, and saked the Town of Thespies which also was at enmity with them.
The Ambassadours of Persia again solicited the Greeks to a Generall Peace, and Commissioners from every Town were to meet at Sparta about it. Epaminondas was yet scarce known, having laboured to conceal himself. and in all his exploits of War, had ever preferred the advancement of his great Friend, and Companion in Armes, Pelopidas, before himself. He was now chosen by ye Thebans to go to Sparta, where, finding that the other Commissioners did much comply with Agesilaus, he spake boldly, and plainly, not only in behalf of the Thebans, but for all Greece also: making it evident to all,Hi… wisdom. that War still encreased the greatnesse of Sparta only, which kept all the other Towns of Greece under. He therefore advised them to establish a firme Peace, which would last the longer, when all comprized in it should be equals.
Agesilaus perceiving all the Commissioners to be very attentive to and well pleased with this speech, he asked him aloud, if he thought it just, and equal, that all Boeotia should be set at liberty. Epaminondas resently,And courage. and boldly asked him, if he thought it not also iust and reasonable that all Laconia should be set at liberty? Thereupon Agesilaus, in great anger, stood up, and commanded him to answer plainly, if they should not restore all the Towns in Boeotia to their Liberty? and Epaminondas answered him as before. This so displeased Agesilaus (who had an old grudge to the Thebans) that immediatly he put their Name out of the List of those that should be comprized within the Treaty of Peace, and proclaimed open War against them, and now there was no remedy but the Thebans must bear the whole brunt alone, for there was no one Town that durst send them any aid, because they were all sworn to the Peace, insomuch as all judged them to be utterly undone. Friends pittied there estate, and their enemies rejoyced, verily believing that they could never stand before the Lacedemonians.
Then did the Lacedemonians send King Cleombrotus with an Army towards Thebes, who being come neer to Chaeronea with ten thousand Foot, and a thousand Horse, he pitched, his Camp there staying for his Allies. The Thebans being informed of the approach of the enemy, chose Epaminondas to be their Captain Generall, giving him the charge of this War, with six other Counsellers to be assisting to him. Now there came Oracles to Thebes from all parts; some promising Victory, and others threatening their overthrow; and Epaminondas commanded them to set those on the right hand of the chaire for Orations, that promised Victory, and the other on the left hand, which being so disposed of, he gat up into the chaire, and said to his Citizens, If you will be obedient to your Captains, and valiant against your enemies, these Oraoles on the right hand belong to you: His Prudence.But if through faintness of heart, ye refuse dangers, those on the left hand shall be your Portion.
Then did he list the Names of all the Thebans which were able to bear Armes, and chose out of some parts of Boeotia, such as he thought fittest for the Wars. His Presence exceedingly cheered up his Army, and all the time that he was Captain, the Thebans never saw in their Campany of those which they call sudden feares. He used to say, that there was no Death more honest and desirable than to die in the Wars, and that the body of a Souldier should be hardened to endure any labour or paines. He could not abide fat men,Fat men cashired. and therefore cashired a whole Company of them as unprofitable burdens in his Army. He had in all, but six thousand fighting men: and as they marched forwards, they met with some unlucky signes, as many esteemed them; but he valued them not, thinking that a resolution to fight in a good cause, ought to be much stronger, and of more force to raise up in him good Hope, than these evill signes that appeared, to make him fear the worst.
As he was marching towards the Lacedemonians, they heard it Thunder, and they that were neer him, asked him what that meant. He answered, that it betokened that the Enemies braines were troubled, and beclouded, who, having places of advantage hard by them, yet encamped in the plaines. Indeed the Lacedemonians waited there for their Allies, who yet failed them. For all of them, having at leasure considered of the speech of Epaminondas at Sparta, began to distast the ambition of the Lacedemonians. Epaminondas seeing his advantage, caused his Army to march with speed,His Prudence. and wan the straights by the City of Coronea, and encamped there: Cleombrotus understanding that the Thebans had possessed themselves of that passe, despairing to recover it, he made his Army to march a great compasse about the Country of Phocide, going along the Sea Coast through a dangerous, and troublesome way, and so at the last he entered into the Country of Boeotia: and as he went, he took in some little Towns, and certain Gallies that lay upon the Coast, and at the last arrived at Leuctres, and there sate down to refresh his men, who were overwearied with their tedious march. Then did Epaminindas presently advance that way to meet them, and having passed over some little Mountaines, he discovered them in the plain of Luctres, where his men were much amazed to see so great an Army of their Enemies.
The six Counsellors came together to consider whether they should go forward and fight, few against many, or else retreat, waiting for some beter advantage. In this Councel, their opinions fell out to be equall. Three judged it best to retreat, the other, whereof Epaminondas was one, thought it best to fight, and with these three, Pelopidas, who was Captain of the Sacred Band, joyned, whereupon they all agreed to give them Battel.And Policy. Epaminondas seeing his Souldiers somewhat affirighted at the former ill signes, to put courage into them, he suborned some that were newly come from Thebes, to scatter a report, that no man could tell at Thebes what was become of the Armes that hung up in the Temple of Hercules; but it was commonly said, that the Demigods, their Ancestors, had taken them away, to aid their posterity, at this present time. He caused another also, who was newly come from Trophonius hole, to report, that the God which gives his Oracles therein, commanded him to tell the Boeotians that when they had overcome their enemies in the plain of Leuctres, they should celebrate yearly Playes to the honour of Jupiter: and to gain the more credit to these devices, Leandridas, a Spartan, that was banished out of his own Country, and now was assisting the Boeotians, being brought before the Souldiers, he encouraged them to fight valiantly that Day: For he swore unto them, that the Lacedemonians had many Oracles, biding them to beware of Leuctres.
Epaminondas also, assembling his Army, encouraged them with strong, and lively reasons, to shew their valour, so that at lasty Souldiers being freed from their superstitious feares, longed for nothing more than to come to blowes. Epaminondas ever concluded his Orations to them with these Words: O worthy men, embrace sacred Death: Advance your selves to a most honorable, and famous Fight for your Country, for the Tombes of your Ancestors, and for your Holy things. Just at this very time there came to the Thebans an aid of five hundred Horse, and fifteen hundred Foot, all Thessalians, conducted by Jason. This Jason endeavored to have made peace with both parties, but could not prevail.
Also as Cleombrotus retired with his Army out of Boeotia, he met a great supply of Lacedemonians, and their Allies, brought to him by Archidamus, the Son of Agesilaus. These he sent before, thinking to daunt the courage of the Thebans with the sight of them, and himself with the rest of his Army suddenly returned into the plain of Leuctres, being fully resolved to fight: and the Boeotians for their part shrunk not an inch back, and so on both sides they set their men in Battel array. Epaminondas ordered his Battel after a new fashion never before practised by any Captain: For having chosen out of his Army the best, and most valiant Souldiers, he placed them together in one of the Points of his Battel, where himself meant to fight in Person, seconded by Pelopidas, and his three hundred chosen men; called the Holy Band: In the other Point he placed his weaker men, commanding them expresly not to abide the charge of their enemies that should assaile them in Front, but fair, and softly retire when they saw them come near them: and it fell out as he wished: and he hoped to determine the Battel by the virtue,A Battel and prowess of those where he had placed all the flower, and choice of his Army.
Now the sign of Battel being given, the Lacedemonians advanced with the two Horns of their Battel, ordered in the form of a Crescent. On the contrary, one of the wings of the Battel of the Boeotians began to give back, and the other with great fury ran to charge the enemy in the Flank, and soon they were come to the Swords point. At the first, because either side fought desperately, the Victory for a time stood doubtfull, But at last Epaminondas his Troop brake in amongst the Lacedemonians, and slew most of those that were about Cleombrotus. Yet while the King was alive, he kept back the Thebans from the victory, being accompanied with all the flower of his Army, who fought very valiantly about him: But after he fell dead to the ground, having received and given an infinite number of wounds, then thronged they together on all sides, and there was a bloody and cruell fight about his Body, where were heaps of men slain one upon another, and though Epaminondas did all that possibly he could, yet the Lacedemonians made such resistance, that at last they forced the Thebans somewhat to give back, whereby they conveyed the Body of the King out of the presse: But this continued not long: For Epaminondas both by his words and example, did so raise up and encourage the hearts of his men,The Spartans beaten. that they fought like Lyons, and gave so fierce a second charge upon their enemies, that they wholly routed them and made them fly for life, and Epaminondas fiercely pursuing the flying enemy, made a great slaughter of them, and obtained the most glorious victory that ever Captain won, having in a pitched Field overcome the most Noble, and warlike Nation of all Greece, and that with a far smaller number of men than his enemies had. He also rejoyced more in this, than in all his other victories, because it happened to him in his Fathers life-time: and he often used to say, that of all the honest and happy Fortunes that befell him, nothing joyed his heart more, than that he had vanquished the Lacedemonians at Leuctres, his Father and Mother living to see it: and indeed, he that day, did not onelyonly preserve their lives, but of all his Citizens besides,His Humility. the Lacedemonians having fully resolved utterly to destroy the Thebans.
Epaminondas used at all other times to come abroad fine and neat, and with a pleasant countenance: but the next day after this Battel, he came out very sad, heavy, and pensive, and when his Friends asked him whether he had heard any ill news which occasioned this posture, he said, No: but (said he) I perceive by my self yesterday, that being overjoyed with the victory I obtained, my heart was more elevated than it ought, and therefore to day I correct that joy, which yesterday exceeded its due bounds. He knowing that it was the manner of the Spartans, as much as possible, to conceal their losses, he suffered them not to carry away all their dead Bodies together, but every City one after another, by which it appeared that there were four Thousand of them slain: But of the Booetians there were not found above three hundred dead. This Battel was fought in the beginning of the second year of the hundred and second Olympiade.
The Lacedemonians having by this overthrow lost the greatest part of their honour, which they had maintained so long, yet lost not their courage; but to keep their youth still in heart, and to take away all fear from such as had escaped, they sent Agesilaus, with an Army into Arcadia, who was contented to take a few small Towns of the Mantineans, and so to return home again. Some say that Lycomedes, Captain of the Arcadians, making an inrode neer to Orchomene, slew in an encounter, Politropus, Captain of the Lacedemonians, and two hundred Spartans with him, which provoked the Lacedemonians against them: and thereupon the Arcadians, finding themselves too weak for them, they sought alliance and aid from the Thebans. Sure it is that these two States were now at enmity, which occasioned the Arcadians and Thebans to joyn together, who, with their Allies being led by Epaminondas entered into Laconia, with an Army of fourty thousand men, besides thirty thousand others that followed the Camp. At this time the Athenians sent Captain Iphecrates, with twelve thousand men, to aide the Lacedemonians:He plunders Laconia. But before their coming, Epaminondas was entered into Laconia, and had sacked all the Country which had not been wasted by any enemy for six hundred years before.
The Spartans seeing their Country thus plundred, and destroyed, were desirous to have gone out with such Forces as they had, but Agesilaus would not suffer them, telling them how dangerous it was for them to leave their City, and to set upon such a potent, and numerous enemy. This made them quiet: and Epaminondas in the mean time marched with his Army towards the River Eurotas, which at that time was risen very high, because of the Winter raines. He endeavoured all he could, to draw forth Agesilaus to a Battel, who beholding Epaminondas a great while, marching with his Army in Battel aray along the River side at the Head of his Troops,He braves the Spartans. he wondred at his boldnesse, and Valour, but would by no meanes adventure out of his Fort: So that when this Army had plundred all Laconia, Epaminondas led them back again laden with a very rich Booty. And though Agesilaus was commended for pteserving his City in safety; yet Epaminondas had by this inrode, and especially by his Victory at Leuctres, so impoverished the Country, that Sparta could never after recover that losse, nor grow into that reputation and power which it had before. Yea, notwithstanding the aide sent by the Athenians, and the skill and experience of Iphicrates, Epaminondas returned with his Army intire as he came.
Epaminondas that he might keep the Lacedemonians still underfoot, and heape new troubles upon them, gave Counsell to the Arcadians, and their Allies, to re-edify, and replenish with People the City of Messina, which the Lacedemonians had long before destroyed, and when all the whole Councel had given their consents to it,Messina re-edified. he forthwith, by diligent enquiry sought out all that had been ancient Inhabitants in that City, and in the space of eighty five Dayes, having repaired the ruined Houses, he raised again one of the most Noble, and ancient Cities of Gr…ece, and left there a strong Garrison for their security. This gat him as much, if not more love and honour than any other service which he had ever done,
The Lacedemonians being freed from a great fear by his departure, made an agreement with the Athenians, leaving to them the chief command by Sea, and reserving to themselves that by Land. And afterwards, by the assistance of the Athenians and that aide which came to them out of Sicily, by little and little they recovered their Towns again.
The Arcadians, to stop their proceedings, assaulted ye City of Pallene in Laconia, and taking it by storme, put all the Garrison therein to the Sword, & then razed the Town,Pallene destroyed. and plundred all the Country there abouts. And expecting that the Lacedemonians would seek revenge, they sent for aid to the Thebans, who sent Epaminondas and the other Counsellers to assist them with six thousand Foot, and five hundred Horse. The Athenians having intelligence hereof, sent their Army under the Conduct of Chabrias, who marched directly to Corinth, where he met with a good supply of Souldiers from the Megarians, Pallenians, and Corinthians, so that now he had a Brigade of ten thousand men. These intended to fortifie and stop all the passages and entrances into the Country of Poloponesus. The Lacedemonians and their Allies joyning also with them, made up an Army of twenty thousand men: And accordingly,Peloponesus fortified. beginning at the City of Cencrees, unto the Haven of Lecheum, they blocked all the wayes from one Sea to an other with mighty great peices of Timber laid acrosse, and with a marvelous deep ditch: and this great work was followed with such speed, both by reason of the great multitude of labourers, as also through the forwardnesse of them that prosecuted it with such earnestnesse, that they had quite finished it before the Boeotians could arrive there.
Epaminondas when he came thither, viewing this fortification, perceiving that the easiest place to storme it, was that which the Lacedemonians themselves guarded, he sent to give them defiance though they were thrice as many in number as he was, yet for all this they durst not come out, but kept close under their fortification: Notwitstanding he assaulted them in it, and at last drave them out. In the heat of the fight every one doing his best, some assailing, others defending, Epaminondas chose out the valiantest men in all his Army, and bravely charging the Lacedemonians, he forced them to give back, and in dispite of them, he entred into Peloponnesus, which of all other his Noble exlpoites, was the most wonderfull and memorable action. From thence he marched to the Cities of Epidaure, and Troezen, and so pillaged all the Country:He beates the Spartans. But he staied not to take any of the Towns, because they had strong Garrisons in them: Yet he put Sicyone, Phuente, and some other Towns into such fear, that they yeilded themselves to him.
This being done, he went to Corinth, and overcame the Corinthians in a set Battel, and beat them home, even to the Gates of their City: Yea some of his men were so unadvised, trusting to their own valour, that they entered the Gates of their City pel mel with those that fled, which put the Corinthians into such a terrible fear, that they ran with all speed possible to shelter themselves in their Houses: But Chabrias making head, beat them out again, and slew some, whereupon he caused a token of Triumph to be set up, as if he had given the Thebans an overthrow, for which Epaminondas laughed him to scorn. The Boeotians brought their Army as neer unto Corinth as they could, and Chabrias with his Army encamped without the Walls in a very strong Place of advantage, and there were many Skirmishes betwixt them, in which Chabrias behaved himself with such Valour that he gained great reputation even of Epaminondas himself, who upon a time being asked, whom he thought to be the Greatest Captain, himself, Chabrias, or Iphicrates? Its hard (said he) to judge whilst we are all alive.
Newes was brought to him that the Athenians had again sent an Army into Poloponnesus, furnished with new Armor: Indeed this Army consisted of ten thousand Spaniards and Gauls, whom Dyonisius the Tyrant, sent out of Sicily to aide the Lacedem…nians, having paid them for five moneths: they did some reasonable service in this War, and at the end of Summer returned home again.
It fell out in these last encounters that Epaminondas having forced the Lacedemonians that guarded the fortification before mentioned, had many of them in his power to have slain them:His Clemency. but he contented himself only with this Glory, that in dispite of them, he had entered into Peloponnesus, seeking to do them no more hurt; which gave occasion to those that envied his Glory, to blame him, and to accuse him of Treason, as having willingly spared the enemies, because they should in particular thank him only: But here it will not be improper to take notice how he behaved himself amongst his Citizens, and how wisely he defended his own Integrity.
Amongst all those that envied his Glory and virtue,He is envied. there was one Meneclides, an Orator, and an eloquent man, but with all, most wicked, and very malicious. He finding that Epaminondas won so much honour by the Wars, never left perswading the Thebans to embrace Peace, and prefer it before War, and that because hereby they should not alwayes live under the obedience, and command of one man. But Epaminondas one day told him in the open Counsel: Thou wilt (said he) deceive the Thebans whilst thou advisest them to leave the Wars: and highly commending ease and Peace, thou goest about to put iron bolts upon their feet. For War begets Peace, which yet cannot hold long but amongst them that know how to maintain it with the Sword. Then turning himself to the Citizens, he said, If you will have the Principallity and command of all Greece, you must shroud your selves in your Tents, and lie in your Pavillions in the open Fields, and not follow sports and Pastimes here at home. For he knew well enough that the Boeotians undid themselves by ease and Idlenesse, which made him endeavour continually to keep them in exercise and War▪
Upon a time when the Thebans were to choose Captains, they went about to choose Epaminondas, one of the six counsellers, whereupon he said to them: My Masters, pray you consider of it now you are at leasure before you choose me: For I tell you plainly, if I be chosen your Captain you must to the Wars. He used to call the Country of Boeotia, which was a plain, and Champion Country, the Stage of War, saying, that it was impossible to keep it, unlesse the Inhabitants had their Targets on their Armes, and their Swords in their hands: and this was not, because he did not love Peace, and privacy to study Philosophy, or that he was not more carefull of them that were under his charge than he was of himself, using alwayes to watch and forbear his meat, when the Thebans were at their Banquets, and Feasts, giving themselves over to their pleasures: but because he knew them well enough, and was never more carefull of any thing than to keep his Army from idlenesse.
Upon a time the Arcadians desired him that some of his Companies might come into one of their Towns to lie dry and warm there, all the winter, but he would by no means yeild to it. For (said he to his Souldiers) now they see you exercising your selves in Arms, they wonder at you as brave and valiant men; but if they should see you at the fire side parching of Beans, they would esteem no better of you than of themselves. Neither could he endure Covetousness: for if at sometimes he gave his men leave to go a free…booting, his meaning was, that whatsoever they got, should be bestowed in furnishing them with good Arms; and if any went about to fill his Purse with money he judged him unworthy to be a Souldier. Upon a time he understood that his Target-bearer had received a great summe of money for the ransome of a Prisoner, whereupon he said to him: Give me my Target, and go thy wayes home, and buy thee a Tavern wherein to spend the rest of thy life: for I perceive thou wilt no more, like an honest man, put thy self in danger in the Wars, as formerly thou hast done, because now thou art grown rich and wealthy.
Though Epaminondas was thus virtuous, and unblameable in his life, yet the aforementioned Menectides would never cease contending, and reproaching of him: and one day he went so far as to upbraid him because he had no children, and was not married,His prudence. and that he magnified himself more than ever King Agamemnon had done▪ To this Epaminondas answered, Thou hast nothing to do to counsel me to marry, and in this respect, there is never a man here whose advise I would less make use of than thine (and this he spake because the other was taken notice of to be an Adulterer) And whereas thou thinkest that I envy the fame and renown of Agamemnon, thou art fowly deceived. Yet let me tell thee, that whereas he was ten years in winding one City, I on the contrary, by putting the Lacedemonians to flight in one day, have delivered not onelyonly our own City, but all Greece from their slavery. But thanks be to you? My Lords Thebans (speaking to all the Assembly) by your assistance I did it, and thereby overthrew the power and government of our insulting enemies.
Yet after all his brave deeds,He is accused and abused. both he and Pelopidas were ill rewarded for all their good service, by their ingratefull Citizens: For at their return from Laconia, they, with some other of the six Counsellers, were accused, that after the time that their Government was expired, they retained their power four months after the time appointed by the Law. With much ado Pelopidas was quitted: But Epaminondas willed all his other Companions to lay the fault upon him, who by his Authority forced them to it; and instead of excusing himself, he told them all the brave exploits which he had done at that time: Adding withall, that he was willing and ready to die, if they so pleased, Provided that they wrote upon his Tomb, that Epaminondas was put to death, because he had compelled the Thebans against their wills to burn the Country of Laconia, which in five hundred years before had never been plundered. That he had repeopled the City of Messina with Inhabitants, two hundred and thirty years after it had been laid wast by the Lacedemonians. That he had brought all the people and Towns of Arcadia to be as one Body, in League together, and had set all the Greeks at liberty: and all these things (said he) we did in that Journey. The Judges when they heard this worthy and true defence, they all arose from their seats, and laughed heartily, and would not take up their Balls to Ballot against him.
But for the second accusation, to wit, that he had shewed favour to the Lacedemonians for his own particular honour, he would make no particular answer to it before the People, but rising out of the Theater, he passed through the Assembly and went into the Park of Exercises. Upon this the people being incensed against him, refused to chuse him into Office as they had wont to do, though there was great need of him, and Created other Counsellers to go into Thessaly: and the more (as they thought) to despite him, they commanded him to go that expedition as a private Souldier, which he refused not, but went very willingly.
Pelopidas being sent a second time into Thessaly to make peace between the people and Alexander the Tyrant of Pheres, was by this Tyrant (not regarding that he was an Ambassadour, and a Theban) committed to prison, together with Ismenias. Pelopidas imprison? ed by a Tyrant.Upon this, the Thebans being justly offended, sent an Army of eight thousand Foot and five hundred Horse against him, howbeit under the conduct of unskillfull Captains, who, wanting judgement to use their advantages, thought good to return home without doing any thing: But as they went back Alexander, being stronger in Horse than they, pressed hard upon their Reer, killing some, and wounding others; so that the Thebans knowing neither how to go forward nor backward, were in great distresse; and that which aggravated their misery was, that their victuals were almost spent. Being thus almost out of hope ever to get home in safety, Epaminondas being at that time a common Souldier amongst the Foot, both the Captaines and Souldiers earnestly intreated him to help to redresse this disorder. He thereupon chose certaine Footmen that were light armed, and all the Horsmen, and with these putting himself into the Rere of the Army, he so lustily repulsed the Eenemy, that the rest of the Army afterwards marched in great safety,His Policy. and still making Head, as occasion served, and keeping his Troops in good order, he at last brought them all well home.
This brave Act Crowned him with new Glory, confounded his enemies, and made him well spoken of every where, and by it he obtained the love and good will of the Citizens, who set great Fines upon the heads of those Captaines who had behaved themselves so unworthily in that expedition. And now the People seeing that by so many worthy deeds he had stoped the slanderous mouths, and confuted the accusations of his ill willers, they chose him again their Captain Generall to conduct a new Army into Thessaly: At his coming all the Country wonderfully rejoyced, only the Tyrant with his Captaines, and Friends were exceedingly dejected, and possessed with feare, being Thunderstruck with the fame of so Noble a Captaine, and his subjects had a good mind to rise up against him, hoping that they should shortly see the Tyrant fully recompenced for all the wicked and cursed deeds that he had done amongst them.
Epaminondas when he came into Thessaly, preferred the safety and deliverance of his Friend Pelopidas before his own honour and Glory,His Prudence. and fearing lest Alexander when he should see himself and his State in danger to be overthrown, should in his rage revenge himself upon Pelopidas, he therefore purposly drew this War out in length, marching often about him, but never setting upon him in good earnest, often seeming to make preparations, and yet still delaying: and this he did, to mollify the heart of this Tyrant, and not to provoke (to the danger of his Friend) the inhumane and unbridled passion of this cruel Bloudsucker. Yet he being a Monster compounded of cruelty, and cowardlinesse, was so afraid of the very name and reputation of Epaminondas, that he presently sent some to him to excuse his fact, and to crave Peace. But Epaminondas was not willing that his Thebans should make Peace and Alliance with so wicked a man, only he was content to grant him a Truce for thirty Dayes,Pelopidas released. upon the delivering to him Pelopidas and Ismenias.
So with them he returned back to Thebes, and alwayes continued a faithfull Friend to Pelopidas so long as they lieved together: Yet would he never share with him in his Riches, but did still perseveare in his former strict poverty and Discipline. He was very bold, and yet it was mingled with a winning sweetnesse and a livly grace, as may appear in sundy Examples. Besides his bold speech to Agesilaus, mentioned before: At another time the Argians having made a League with the Thebans, the Athenians sent their Ambassadors into Arcadia, to see if they could gain the Arcadians to be their Friends. And these Ambassadors began roundly and hotly to charge and accuse both the one and the other, and Callistratus speaking for them, reproached them with Orestes, and Oedipus: Epaminondas being present at that Assembly, stood up, and said, My Lords, His witty speeches.we confesse that in times past we had a man that killed his Father, and in Argos, one that killed his Mother, but as for us now, we have banished all such wicked murtherers out of our Country, and the Athenians have intertaned them.
At another time when the Spartans had laid many great and grievous imputations to the charge of the Thebans, he said, If they have done nothing else, my Lords of Sparta, yet at least they have made you forget to speak little. But that which was most excellent, and observable in Epaminondas, and which indeed did stop the mouth of envy it self was his moderation, and temperance, knowing how to use any state or condition, and never to rage either against himself or others, alwayes bearing this mind, that howsoever they took him, and in what place soever they set him, he was well contented, so that he might but advance the good of his Country: As may appear by this Example: on a time his evil-willers, thinking to bring him into disgrace, and meerly out of spite, made him superintendant or overseer of all the customs, whilst others of his inferiors,His Humility- unworthy to be compared with him, were placed in the most honourable Offices: Yet despised he not this meane Office, but discharged it very Faithfully: For (said he) the Office or Authority shewes not only what the man is, but also the man what the Office is.
Shortly after Epaminondas was returned out of Thessaly, the Arcadians were overcome by Archidamus and the Lacedemonians, who in the fight lost not a man, and therefore they called this journey the tearlesse Battel: and Epaminondas forseeing that the Arcadians would yet have another storme, he gave them counsel to fortifie their Towns, which they did accordingly, and built that City which afterwads was called Megalopolis, Megalopelis built.situated in a very convenient place. Whilst the Thebans made War with the Elians, their neighbours, the minde of Epaminondas was alwayes lifted up to high enterprizes for the good of his Country, wherefore in an Oration which he made to his Citizens, he preswaded them to make themselves strong by Sea, and to endeavour to get the principality, and to make themselves the Lords thereof. This Oration was full of lively reasons whereby he shewed and proved unto them, that the enterpize was both honourable, and profitable, which he made out by sundry Arguments, telling them that it was an easy thing for them, who were now the stronger by Land, to make themselves also the stronger by Sea: and the rather, for that the Athenians in the War against Xerxes, though they had armed and set forth two hundred Gallyes, armed and well appointed with men, yet they willingly submitted themselves to the Lacedemonians. He alleadged many other reasons, whereby he prevailed so far, that the Thebans were willing to undertake the enterprize, and thereupon gave present order to build an hundred Gallies, and an Arsenall with so many rooms that they might lay them under covert in the Dock:The Thebans build a Navy. They ordered also to send to them of Rhodes, and of Chio, and of Byzantium, to desire their furthrance in this enterprize: for which end Epaminondas was sent with an Army unto these Cities: In his Passage he met with Leches ▪ a Captain of the Athenians, with a number of Ships in his Fleet, who was sent on purpose to hinder this designe of the Thebans: Yet Epaminondas so affrighted him, that he made him retire back again, and holding on his course he brought the aforenamed Cities to enter into League with the Thebans. Shortly after the Thebans fell out with the City of Orchomene, which had done them great hurt, and mischiefe, and having won it by assault, slew all the men that were able to bear Armes, and made all the women and children Slaves.
Some time after the death of Pelopidas, certain private Persons of Mantinea, fearing to be called to an account for their bad behaviours, and robberies which they had committed, if the Arcadians and Elians should agree, they so brought it about, that they raised a new quarrel in the Country,New Wars. which was divided into two Factions, whereof the Mantineans were the chief on the one side, and the Tageates on the other. This quarrel went so far, that the Parties would needs try it by Armes. The Tageates sent to request aid of the Thebans, who accordingly chose Epaminondas their Captain Generall, and sent him with a good number of men of War to aid the Tageates. The Mantineans being terrified with this aid that came out of Boeotia to their eneemies, and at the reputation of their Captain, they immediatly sent to the Athenians, and Lacedemonians, the greatest enemies of the Boeotians, for their assistance, which both the Cities granted. Upon this there fell out many and great skirmishes in diverse parts of Peloponnesus: and Epaminondas being not far off from Mantinea, understood by some of the Country men, that Agesilaus, and his Lacedemonians, were come into the Field, and that they wasted all the Territories of the Tageates; whereupon, judging that there were but few men left in the City of Sparta to defend it, he undertook a great exploit, and dangerous, and had certainly effected it, if the marvelous good Fortune of Sparta had not hindred it. His designe was this:A notable atempt▪ He departed from Tegea by night, the Mantineans knowing nothing of it, and taking a by way, he had certainly surprised Sparta without striking a stroak, had not a Post of Candia speedily carried word of it to Agesilaus, who immediatly dispatched away an Horsman to give intelligence to them of Sparta to stand upon their guard, and he himself speedily hasted after, and arrived there a little before the coming of the Thebans, who being very near the City a little before day, they gave an assault to them that defended it. This made Agesil…us to bestir himself wonderfully, even beyond the strength of so old a man: But his Son Archidamus, and Isadas, the Son of Phaebidas fought valiantly on all parts▪ Epaminondas seeing how prepared the Spartanes were to oppose him, began then to suspect that his design was discovered; yet notwithstanding he left not off to force them all he could, though he fought with great disadvantage, considering the places wherein he was: yea, he continued fighting courageously, till the Army of the Lacedemonians came on, and till the night approached, whereupon he sounded a retreat.
Then being informed that the Mantineans came on also with their forces, he withdrew his Army somewhat farther off from the Town, and there Camped. After which he caused his men to refresh themselves with victuals, and leaving certain Horsemen in the Camp, he commanded them to make fires in the morning, and in the mean time himself with the rest of his men, went to surprize Mantinea before any should discover that he was departed.An other but frustrated. Yet herein also he failed of his purpose, the prosperity of the Thebans being come to its height, and the course of Epaminondas his Life drawing neer to an end, whereby Greece was deprived of this Noble and famous Captain, from whom was taken a most notable Victory, and that twice, by strange accidents.
For at the second time, when he was come neer to Mantinea that was left without guard and defence, just then, on the other side of the Town there arrived six thousand Athenians, conducted by their Captain Hegelecus, who having put sufficient force into the Town, ordered the rest of his Army in Battel array without the Walls, and immediatly also came the Mantineans, and Lacedemonians together, who prepared to put all to the hazard of a Battel, and therefore sent for their Allies from all parts: and when they were come together they were in all twenty five thousand Foot, and two thousand Horse. The Arcadians, Boeotians, and their partakers were thirty thousand Foot, and three thousand Horse. When they came to the Battel, first the Horse charged with great fury,A Battel. and the Horsmen of the Athenians encountering with the Thehans, proved too weak for them, not because they were lesse valiant, or hardy than the other, but because they had not so good Chieftains, and had few Archers amongst their Troops. The Thebans on the other side were all excellently well appointed, and had Thessalians amongst them, men very skilfull in their Bowes, who so plyed the Athenians that they wholly brake them, and put them to the rout, yet in their flight they did not run amongst their Footmen, which made them somewhat recover their Honour which they had lost by running away. On the contrary part, as they fled, they met with some Companies of Negropont, whom the Arcadians had sent to take in certain Hills hard by the plain where the Battel was fought, whom they put all to the Sword.
The men at Arms of the Thebans seeing them turn their backs, did not pursue them at all, but presently gave charge upon a great Battalion of Footmen, forcing them all they could to break, and run through them. So the fight was very cruel and sharp, yet in the end the Athenians were forced to quit the place: whereupon a Collonel of Horsemen of the Elians, who stood as a reserve to guard the Rere, defended them, and encountering with the Bo…otians, he resisted them, and made them give back, which reinforced the fault of the left point of their Army. But in the right point, after the Horsemen had charged one another, the fight was soon determined: For by reason of the great number of men at Armes of the Thebans, and Thessalians, the Mantineans and their partakers were soon put to rout, and haveing lost a great number of their men, they sheltered themselves under the Battalion of their Footmen, and this was the issue of the fight between the Horsemen.
As for the infantry, after they came once to the Sword, it was a marvellous bloody, and cruel fight. For never before that time was there so many Greeks in the Field one against another, nor so great and expert Captains, nor such valiant Souldiers as were now. The two Nations that at that time bare the name to be the bravest Footmen in all the world, to wit, the Thebans, and Lacedemonians, were now set in Front one against the other, and they began to charge, neither sparing Life nor limb. The first charge they gave was with their Pikes, which being soon broken with the huge blows they gave each other, then they came to it with their Swords, and lustily laying about them, Body to Body, Death raged in every place, and there was a mighty carnage made: for neither part shrunk back, or gave over with wearinesse, but stood to it like undaunted men. And so continued this dangerous Fight for a long time, by reason of the valiantness of either party, the victory stood doubtfull for a great while, and it could not be judged which side was like to have the upper hand. For every one that fought, had this resolution in his heart, not to fear Death whatsoever befell them: But rather desiring to make proof of their utmost Valour, they willingly parted with their lives to lye in the Bed of Honour. By reason whereof, though the fight was sharp and cruel, yet the event remained for a long space so uncertain, that it could not be discerned to which side the Victory should fall
But at last, Epaminondas seeing no other remedy, but that the issue of this doubtfull fight depended upon his own virtue and valour, he resolved with himself to adventure his life upon it: and presently▪ gathering about him all the best, and choisest men of his Army, and of them having compounded a Company of stout and resolute Blades, he ran with great fury into the thickest, and greatest press of all his enemies, marching himself the foremost man in all his Troop, with a Spear in his hand, with the which at the first blow he gave, he slew the Captain of the Lacedemonians, and straightway the rest of his company began to assail their enemies. But Epaminondas laying about him like a Lion, slew so many in the place where he stood with his own hands, that at last he opned the Battel of the Lacedemonian, whom he pursued & laid on them so lustily, that they being unable any longer to defend themselves against ye irristable fury of himself and his followers, were enforced to give back and leave the place to the Boeotians, who yet followed them at their heels, beating them down so eagerly, that in a short space the whole Field was covered with dead Bodies, lying on heapes one upon another.
But in the end, the Lacedemonians seeing that they could no way save themselves, gathered courage out of despair, and a Company of them joyning together, all set upon Epaminondas throwing an infinite number of Darts at him, of which some he avoided, others he received upon his Target, but yet there were many that stuck in his Body which he pulled out, and fought with the same weapons against those that had thrown them at him. At last, when he had done more than a man, and beyond all humane strength, thereby to win Honour to his Country by gaining them the victory, a certain L…co…ian called Anticrates, thrust him into the breast with a Dart with such force, as breaking the wood,He is deadly wound…d. he left the iron Head sticking in his Body. Having received this deadly wound, he fell immediately to the ground: But then was there a more cruel fight about him than ever there was before, which occasioned great slaughter on both sides, till the Thebans by fine force made their enemies to flie for their lives, and when they had pursued them a while, they returned back to their Camp that they might keep the dead Bodies in their power, which was a certain signe that the victory was theirs, and then they sounded a retreat, and so the Battel ended.
Both sides challenged the victory and made Triumphs for it. The Lacedemonians did it,The Spartans beaten. because the Athenians had slain those of Negropont that were sent to seize upon the Hils before mentioned, and kept their Bodies in their power. The Thebans on the other side having overcome the Spartans, had the Bodies of them that were slain in the Battel, in their power, which was by far the greater number, wherefore they said, that they were the Victors. Thus both standing upon their tearms, it was a good while before either would send a Trumpet or Herauld to the other for leave to bury their dead. Yet at last the Lacedemonians sent first, and then they all betook themselves to give the dead an Honourable Burial. And as for him that had killed Epaminondas, he was highly esteemed and honoured for his valiant act, and the Lacedemonians gave him many rich Presents, and made him and his Posterity free from all publick Taxes and contributions in the Commonwealth.
As for Epaminondas he was brought yet alive into his Tent; how beit his Physitians, and Surgeons being called together to dresse his wounds, they all concluded that so soone as they plucked the head of the Dart out of his Body, he must needs die. And truly he made a most noble and worthy end. For first he called for his Target-bearer, who was alwayes at his hand in the Battel, and asked him: Is my Target safe? He brought it strait. Then he asked, who had the Victory? The Boeotians answered, the Target-bearer. Then he commanded them to bring to him Diophantus and Jolidas: they told him they were both dead: Upon this he advised his Citizens to make Peace with their enemies,His advice to the Thebans. for that they had not any Captain of skill to lead them to the Wars. And now (said he) it is time for me to die, and therefore pluck the Dart Head out of my Body. At this word all his Friends that were about him fetched grievous sighs, and even cryed out for sorrow: and one of them weeping, said unto him: Alas Epaminondas! Thou diest now and leavest no Children behind thee: Yea (said he) that I do: Eor I leave two faire Daughters behind me, whereof the one is the Victory at Leuctres and the other, this of Mantinea. So they pulled out the Dart,His death. and immediatly he gave up the Ghost, without shewing any signe that he was at all troubled at it.
He used often to say, That War is the Bed of Honour, amd that it is a sweet Death to dye for ones Country. He was one of the bravest Captaines that ever we read of:His character. For whereas others excelled in some one or two Virtues by which they made their Fame great and glorious, he excelled in all the Vertues and good Parts that could be desired in a Grave, Politick and Great Captain, to make him compleat in all things that could be expected in an Heathen. In his time he advanced his Country to the Principality of all Greece. But after his Death they soon lost it: and not long after Alexander the Great, utterly▪ …rake them in peices, made slaves of those that survived, and razed their City to the very ground. A… in hi… life time he had alwayes detested covetou…n…sse▪ so after his Death the Thebans were faigne to bury him at the common charge of the City,H…s poverty. because they found no mony in his house to defray the least patt of the Funerall expences.
FINIS.