Final answer:
The query about Xerxes fighting a particular kind of animal seems to be based on a mix up with fictional or legendary accounts, as historical records do not mention such an event. Xerxes is principally known for his large-scale invasion of Greece during the Persian War, and his subsequent withdrawal following Greek naval victories.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question seems to refer to a legendary or fictional account as history does not record Xerxes, the Persian king, having to fight any particular kind of animal in his youth. Instead, Xerxes I is known for his military campaigns, particularly the invasion of Greece in 480 BCE.
While there are mythological and legendary tales of figures fighting beasts, such as the account of Bahram Gur facing the Karg, a monstrous horned wolf, these are not directly related to Xerxes. Therefore, it is important to distinguish between historical events and fictional or legendary accounts when discussing Xerxes' life and actions.
In historical terms, Xerxes is most renowned for his role in the Persian War, during which he assembled a massive army and navy to invade Greece and avenge the defeat of his father, Darius. Despite his vast forces, Xerxes faced logistical challenges following the Greek naval victory, leading to the eventual withdrawal of his forces from Greece.
The portrayal of Xerxes and his army in historical sources reflects a strong pro-Greek bias, often depicting the Persian military as consisting largely of ineffective peasant conscripts with a minority of elite cavalry and the famed Immortals. Nevertheless, the Persian War remains one of the most famous conflicts in ancient history, marked by notable battles such as the stand at Thermopylae by Spartan King Leonidas and his men.