This Is Sparta!

Visualize back to 480 BC. Thermopylae in central Greece, is where it all happened: invasion, defending, bloodshed, and courage. It was a very narrow mountain pass surrounded by cliffs and sea. Known as the Battle of Thermopylae, this historical conflict involved merely hundreds of Spartan men against the massive hundreds of thousands of Persians. King Leonidas of Sparta led his small force to the invading army of Persians led by emperor Xeres. While outnumbered, the Spartans still consistently slaughtered numerous Persians through their spirited and skillful abilities in attitude and battle technique.

Covered in heavy armor, with spear and shield always in hand, they fought like the warriors they were raised to be. Spartans are known for their expertise in skills of discipline, fighting, and strength. With absolute devotion, they dedicate their lives to and for their country. Young boys are taken into training at the age of seven to practice and build their body and character. Spartan women are much the same in their attitudes and abilities. Although some of the most beautiful, the women were also the toughest in spirit. Mothers often stated to their sons before battle, “Come back with you shield, or on it.”

When the movie 300 was introduced into theatres March of 2007, I wasn’t intrigued; I merely assumed it to be a violent history lesson on screen. I agreed to go see it after hearing the positive feedback from guy and girl friends. This movie changed my whole perspective on movies which remake significant historical events. 300 is a perfect balance of facts and knowledge with entertainment and action. The cast did an amazing job of creating the Spartan feeling and character.

The movie 300, based on a graphic novel by Frank Miller, captures all of these elements. The first five minutes of the movie, my eyes were fixated on the screen. The beginning scenes illustrate the Spartan values and lifestyles. The men, women, and children all take great pride in not just themselves but their country. King Leonidas portrays everything a leader should, and is also a wonderful husband and father. His interaction with his army is stern yet committed. The Spartan army is not just fellow soldiers but loyal friends. The dedication to both their homeland and to each other shows their character and culture.

Not only does it involve a thrilling clash in Greece, but the purpose of the battle instills lessons about dedication and persistence. Watching such few men fight with such great passion filled my heart with admiration. The movie shows specific examples of the advanced skill and intelligence the Spartans used in their tactics. Humor is tied in to many of their comments about the Persians and even death. Their bulging muscles and stomachs resembling washboards show off a lifetime of practice and training. The spears' penetration into various parts of the Persians flesh wasn’t repulsive but gratifying to watch. Usually I am sensitive to violence and bloodshed, but 300 made me want to see more. If it wasn’t for such an amazing story behind their purpose of fighting, it wouldn’t have been intriguing and exciting to watch.

While the men were at battle, the movie does not neglect what is happening back home in Sparta. The women’s outlook and actions towards the war and lifestyle were amazing and it made me admire their courage and involvement. You will find yourself feeling as if you are a Spartan yourself, yearning for victory in their pursuits for a greater Greece. With a touch of fantastical occurrences, the movie could appear fictional for some. However, this made it much clearer for the viewers to realize to what extent the army of 300 had to encounter. Not only was this enjoyable to watch as the story unfolds, but it builds the importance of this battle.

I would recommend this movie for any girl or guy from teens to adults. An entertaining story of an important period in history will engage you throughout the entire film. You won’t simply receive a Greek history lesson or watch men on men bloodshed. This movie is much deeper with astonishing acting and events. You will gain a new respect for Sparta and enjoy the fascinating techniques and characteristics they utilize as a way of life. It will also teach you it’s not about quantity, but quality.

Sources:

http://www.usatoday.com/tech/science/columnist/vergano/2007-03-05-300-history_N.htm

http://library.flawlesslogic.com/leonidas.htm