A Historical Commentary on Thucydides: Volume 1: Introduction and Commentary on Book I : Book Review

"A Historical Commentary on Thucydides" by A.W. Gomme offers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of Thucydides' influential work, "The History of the Peloponnesian War." Gomme's book provides readers with a detailed exploration of Thucydides' narrative style, his historical methodology, and the political and cultural context of the war.

One of the notable strengths of Gomme's book is his ability to unravel the complexities of Thucydides' writing. Through meticulous examination, Gomme dives into each chapter, shedding light on Thucydides' motives, sources, and analysis. This approach enhances readers' understanding of Thucydides' intentions and helps them grasp the intricate details of his narrative.

Gomme goes beyond a simple analysis of the text and places Thucydides' work in its historical context. By exploring the political and cultural aspects of the Peloponnesian War, Gomme provides valuable insights into Thucydides' biases and interpretations of events. This exploration provides readers with a clearer perspective on the motives and actions of the various factions involved in the war, enhancing our understanding of the broader implications of the conflict in ancient Greece.

In addition to its historical and literary analysis, Gomme's book offers a wealth of supplementary materials. Footnotes and references throughout the text allow readers to delve deeper into the subject matter and explore different interpretations. The extensive bibliography provided by Gomme serves as an excellent resource for those interested in further research on Thucydides and the Peloponnesian War.

Although Gomme's writing style can be dense and academic at times, it highlights his expertise and deep understanding of the subject matter. His balanced and well-researched commentary provides readers with a deeper understanding of Thucydides' masterpiece. "A Historical Commentary on Thucydides" is an essential companion for anyone seeking a deeper exploration of the complexities of Thucydides' "The History of the Peloponnesian War."

What are readers saying?

"A Historical Commentary on Thucydides" is a highly acclaimed book that offers a collection of comprehensive historical commentaries on the works of Thucydides. Scholars and enthusiasts of ancient history widely consider this book to be an essential resource. The reviews on Goodreads consistently highlight its in-depth analysis, thoroughness, and valuable insights.

One aspect that stands out in the reviews is the book's thorough and detailed examination of Thucydides' writings. Readers appreciate the author's ability to provide a comprehensive analysis, including explanations of the historical context, political motivations, and the significance of key events. This meticulous approach greatly enhances the readers' understanding of Thucydides' works and the valuable lessons they offer.

Reviewers also emphasize the value and relevance of the commentary. The insights provided by the author are highly regarded, as they shed light on the complexities of Thucydides' narrative and the historical events described in his works. The book's ability to encourage critical thinking and further exploration of the subject matter is commended.

The organization and clarity of the book are also praised by reviewers. The author effectively structures the commentary, making it easy for readers to navigate and reference specific sections. The inclusion of maps and helpful illustrations is noted as a valuable addition that aids in the comprehension of Thucydides' writings.

In terms of writing style, the reviews highlight the author's ability to present complex concepts in a clear and accessible manner. The commentary is described as highly readable and engaging, catering to readers with varying levels of expertise.

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