Abstract
The article examines the evidence of ancient authors on the unoffi cial nicknames of Achaemenid Persian kings. Special attention is paid to the interpretation of the nickname of Μακρόχειρ. Two variants are considered for its translation into Russian. In the first case, one should talk about the ancient authors’ perception of this nickname as relating to a person who had one arm longer than another. In the second case, the nickname is interpreted metaphorically: it is believed to be used for a ruler who is seeking for an extension of the possessions. The arguments in favor of each of these two interpretations are given, it is concluded that the fi rst interpretation of this nickname could have led to the emergence of the second. The possibility of applying the nickname of Μακρόχειρ to each of the three Persian kings: Darius I, Xerxes and Artaxerxes I is also investigated. It is suggested that the nickname of Μακρόχειρ refers specifically to Artaxerxes I. The prospect of studying this issue from a medical point of view is emphasized. It is assumed that the Greeks obviously gave the nickname of Μακρόχειρ to Artaxerxes, the son of Xerxes, because of his physical lack, but their intention to interpret this nickname metaphorically led them to the situation when they could not be certain who of the Achaemenides was more worthy of it: Darius, Xerxes or Artaxerxes I.
Keywords
Nicknames, Greeks, Persia, Achaemenids
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