For the Elite/Administrative Class:
* Religion: Zoroastrianism was the state religion, and instruction in its tenets, scriptures (Avesta), and rituals was crucial for those in positions of power. Understanding the religious and moral framework was essential for governance.
* Administration and Governance: This included learning about laws, taxation, record-keeping, and the organization of the empire. Practical skills in managing resources and people were vital.
* Military Strategy and Tactics: Military leadership was often intertwined with administration, and future commanders would have received training in warfare, strategy, and logistics.
* Languages: Aramaic was widely used as an administrative language across the empire. Persian (Old Persian) was also important, and learning other languages prevalent within the empire's diverse population was beneficial.
* Literature and Poetry: While not always a core subject in the same way as administration, appreciation and understanding of Persian literature and poetry was valued by the elite.
* Mathematics and Astronomy: These were essential for practical applications such as surveying land, managing resources, and developing calendars. Astronomy was often linked to religious understanding.
For the General Population:
* Religious Instruction: Basic understanding of Zoroastrian beliefs and practices would have been imparted to all citizens.
* Practical Skills: Depending on their intended occupation, individuals might have learned crafts such as agriculture, carpentry, metalworking, or weaving. These skills were taught through apprenticeships rather than formal schooling in the same way as elite education.
* Literacy: While not universal, some level of literacy in Aramaic or Persian was likely beneficial for many, especially in commerce.
It's important to note that our understanding of ancient Persian education comes primarily from archaeological evidence, limited written sources, and inferences based on the structure of the empire and its administration. We don't have detailed textbooks or curriculum outlines. The education system wasn't standardized in the way that modern school systems are; it was more decentralized and varied based on location and individual circumstances.