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ἀρίστους. The Persian Shah, till he was deposed, was called ‘the centre of the Universe’. H., however, makes too systematic the conceit common to all nations, civilized as well as uncivilized.

Two points must be distinguished:

(1) The Persian system of graduated respect.

(2) The Median system of graduated rule, which H. compares to it (§ 3 ad fin. ‘in the same way as the Persian show degrees of honour’).

As to (2) H. is again too systematic, but he represents accurately the broad facts of the contrast between Persian and Median rule; under the Medes, the subject kingdoms paid tribute or sent gifts, while they still ruled their own dependents; under Persia, all districts alike were under the satraps, and in direct relation to the great king (iii. 87 seq.).

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