“The Bravery of the Persian Women” (c. 1597–99) by Otto van Veen — when retreating Persian soldiers were shamed back into battle by their own women, quoting Plutarch’s Moralia – Austria, vienna [1600×1080]

The painting illustrates an episode from Plutarch’s Moralia (246A–B), where Persian women confront their retreating warriors during a battle. By lifting their garments, the women shame the fleeing men with the words:

“Whither are you rushing so fast, you biggest cowards in the whole world? Surely you cannot, in your flight, slink in here whence you came forth.”

This act of defiance and the accompanying rebuke inspire the men to turn back and secure victory.