Historically, the Persian Empire, under the rule of Xerxes I, did indeed seek to expand its territories into Greece during the 5th century BC. The emperor's ambition was not merely to expand his empire but to subjugate the Greeks, motivated by a desire for revenge against the Spartans and other city-states that had previously thwarted Persian advances. The Battle of Salamis in 480 BC was a pivotal moment in the Persian Wars, as it thwarted Xerxes' plans to conquer Greece.
In conclusion, "300: Rise of an Empire" offers a visually stunning and engaging portrayal of a critical period in ancient history. While it may not adhere strictly to historical facts, it succeeds in highlighting the epic struggle between Persia and Greece.
Cinematic Representation: The film, while taking creative liberties, visually captures the grandeur and complexity of ancient naval warfare. The depiction of the Battle of Salamis showcases the strategic brilliance of Themistocles, played by Sullivan Stapleton, who leads the Greek fleet to a surprising victory against the Persians. The cinematography effectively conveys the vastness of the Persian fleet and the heroism of the Greek warriors.