Cartledge, Paul

Presents a history of the political system known as democracy, beginning with its origins in ancient Greece where the term was coined--and its hostile reception from nearly every major Greek thinker of the time--up through democracy's manifestations in Macedonian and Roman government.

An introduction to ancient Greek life and culture that profiles the men and women who contributed to Greece's rise and fall.

Examines the battle at Thermopylae, where a few thousand Greek warriors fought against a huge army of Persians, discussing the causes, preparation for, and consequences of the battle; and how it changed views about combat, courage, and death. Includes time line, maps, and photographs.

Offers fresh interpretations of classical Greek culture. Examines the far-reaching linguistic, literary, artistic, and political legacy of ancient Greece.

A history of the Spartan civilization, focusing on some of its prominent citizens, the ideals on which it was based, and how, despite the high values placed on masculine ideals, women were allowed an unusually dominant and powerful role.