The 300 Spartans

When Warner Bros'. '300' premiered in 2007, controversy ensued, as the movie which was based on a series of comic books written and illustrated by Frank Miller, was criticized by academics, scholars and several international communities due to its revisionism. Unfortunately, the release of '300' on DVD and cable shortly thereafter, allowed an accessibility to many in the under-17 age group. Despite its restrictive 'R' rating, students who couldn't gain admittance in theaters were given the opportunity to finally view the movie at home.

Of paramount importance has been the concern rendered by elementary and high school teachers, who feel that the aforementioned age group may not be able to distinguish fact from fiction. While those affiliated with '300' have gone on record as saying that the movie is not historically accurate, how is a student who has not read the classics at this impressionable age able to ascertain which scenes are factual vs. those that are not?

Since there were many embellishments throughout which have been addressed in these pages, it is precisely for this reason that it is important to include images from the ancient ceremonial capital of Persepolis as it provides a glimpse of how the Persian warriors and royalty appeared during those times. Therefore, this website will include resources for younger students, and images from several of our classroom presentations/demonstrations (see below). An interactive learning environment has been created which is now available for schools interested in learning more about the Battle of Thermopylae, Sparta, its allies and Persia.

Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA

To view our collaboration with Drexel University's �Battle of Marathon 2500 Year Anniversary� program, please click the image above

'The Hellenic Warriors' a.k.a 'Warriors of Thermopylae' Living History Group have appeared at museum events and schools and are available for appearances in the Mid-Atlantic area. Fully clad with the arms and armor that were indicative of those used by the 300 Spartans and other Greek warriors of the Greco-Persian Wars era, the members of the group can be available individually or collectively to field questions relative to these battle and to demonstrate the tactics used.

In addition, several of the inaccuracies which have been perpetuated by Hollywood will be discussed. This demonstration will provide an informative and interactive environment for the students to learn the history of the Battles of Thermopylae & Marathon.

If you are interested in one or more of 'The Hellenic Warriors' appearing at your school, please contact us.

Furthermore, a Battle of Thermopylae crossword puzzle (it is free) has been created specifically as a learning tool for students. If any teachers would like access to this document, please contact me using your school's email address, as it is intended for classroom purposes only.