Persepolis Motifs

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Persepolis was the ceremonial and symbolic capital of the Achaemenid Empire. It was designed to exemplify the kings’ power and showcase the empire’s grandeur. Representatives from subject nations would travel to Persepolis to pay homage to the king and show their admiration for the empire through gifts and tributes. This is reflected in the architecture and layout of Persepolis. Sources A to F convey the role of Persepolis in conveying the power and image of the king. The primary entrance to Persepolis was known as ‘The Gate of All Nations’ and is depicted in source C. The grand structure served to exemplify the empire’s prosperity and wealth and was designed to impress visitors from subject nations. The name itself reinforced the Achaemenid Empire’s great and diverse population and highlighted the king’s great authority over a multitude of nations, emphasising his power. As seen in source C, Lamassu bulls were at the forefront of the gate, acting as protective and divine spirits that symbolised the king’s ability to protect his empire …show more content…

As captured in sources B and F, the staircase is decorated with a multitude of reliefs. In source B, the motif of the lion fighting the bull is portrayed. Though interpretations vary, the motif is often cited as signifying the king’s divinity, with the empire’s expansion and conquests serving as evidence of the sacred guidance he is under. Scenes of royal power are depicted throughout the staircase, with one such example being ‘The Audience Scene’. As portrayed in Source F, the ‘Audience Scene’ depicts an important ceremonial event, with an official from one of the subject nations paying homage to the king. All figures are adorned in dignified attire, emphasising the importance of the event. The king is seated in the centre of the relief and is larger than the other figures, conveying the significant role assumed by the

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