It should be noted that 300 was never meant to be historically accurate. I mean, the mere fact that it is based on a comic book is testament to that. Sparta troops wearing noting but a 'cape', boots, and a helmet? <_< As for the political stuff, could care less about it. Of course if you're looking for examples of freedom at the time, there weren't that many. Yeah, in many ways, Persia was the 'better' society to be in since, there are no slaves. However, what we call democracy and 'freedom' in today, all came from Greece. While you were 'free' in Persia relatively speaking, at the same time, you were also all subjects of the King.
I also feel a lot of that stuff is kind of, self-projection for the film. I mean, the graphics novel was made before the Iraq war. Yet it seems everyone is trying to link it to modern day events. <_<
And before any of you bring up the Military Dictatorship that is Sparta, don't bother. I'm well aware that if there is any city-state in Greece at the time that I should live, Sparta would be dead LAST on that list. After all, the concepts that we all grew to love, came from Athens, not Sparta. Still, can't fault the sacrifices of the 300 and yes, 700 Thebans for standing up to what is, an overwhelming force by today, and at the time, its standards.
BTW, haven't seen said movie either.