S8 Ep1168: Barry Strauss shifts the conflict to the western coast of Greece, where Antony and Cleopatra's massive fleet waits at Actium. Strauss emphasizes that while tactics are for amateurs, logistics are for professionals. Marcus Agrippa executes a brilliant logi
Podcast: The John Batchelor ShowPublished On: Mon Jul 27 2026
Description: Barry Strauss shifts the conflict to the western coast of Greece, where Antony and Cleopatra's massive fleet waits at Actium. Strauss emphasizes that while tactics are for amateurs, logistics are for professionals. Marcus Agrippa executes a brilliant logistical strike by capturing Methone, a vital supply base on the southwestern coast of Greece. This amphibious landing, conducted under the cover of a quarter moon, cuts Antony's essential supply line from Egypt. Antony, stationed further north at Patrae, fails to react effectively to this "one-two punch." While Agrippa disrupts the rear, Octavian moves his fleet north of Actium, effectively trapping Antony's forces. Strauss notes the strangeness of Antony's decision to wait for the enemy rather than invading Italy, suggesting he may have lost his nerve or been constrained by the propaganda risk Cleopatra posed. (5)
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