Is the happiness of the earth found on the back of horses? Yes, Xenophon believed so 2500 years ago in two works that were the first in world literature to reflect on horse and rider. Xenophon's "Hipparchikos" and "Peri Hippikes" are guides for horse and rider and are still considered foundational for the art of riding; they also convey the basics of good leadership and, not least, a vivid picture of life in classical Athens.