"The Portable Greek Historians" by Moses I. Finley is a comprehensive collection of important works by ancient Greek historians. As an esteemed historian himself, Finley expertly selects and translates excerpts from the writings of Herodotus, Thucydides, Xenophon, and Polybius, providing readers with a well-rounded understanding of Greek history and culture.
This book offers a diverse range of historical narratives and perspectives, covering significant events such as the Persian Wars, the Peloponnesian War, Athens' rise to power, and Alexander the Great's conquests. Each historian has a distinct writing style and approach, allowing readers to engage with different viewpoints and interpretations of these events. Finley's translations are clear and accessible, preserving the essence of the original texts while making them easily understandable for modern readers.
An outstanding feature of "The Portable Greek Historians" is the inclusion of extensive footnotes and annotations by Finley. These additions provide valuable historical context, clarifying references and offering insights into the intricacies of ancient Greek society. Finley's expertise shines through in these annotations, enriching the reader's understanding and appreciation of the texts.
Available on Audible
Furthermore, each historian is introduced by Finley through insightful essays that offer essential background information and analysis. These essays serve as excellent starting points for readers unfamiliar with Greek history, laying the foundation for understanding the significance of the selected texts. They also serve as a valuable refresher for those already well-versed in ancient Greek history.
Overall, "The Portable Greek Historians" is an essential read for anyone interested in exploring the fascinating world of ancient Greece. Moses I. Finley's extensive knowledge and careful curation make this book a valuable resource for students, scholars, and casual readers alike. It provides a gateway to understanding the complexities of Greek history, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the ancient world.
What are readers saying?
"The Portable Greek Historians" by Moses I. Finley is highly regarded among readers for its comprehensive and accessible introduction to the works of Greek historians. It is praised as an indispensable resource for students and enthusiasts of ancient history.
Reviewers appreciate the book's well-structured organization. They commend the inclusion of writings from various Greek historians like Herodotus, Thucydides, and Xenophon, as well as lesser-known writers. This diverse range allows readers to gain a broad understanding of Greek historical writing. Moreover, the book provides helpful introductions and commentary before each section, aiding readers in contextualizing the texts and grasping their significance.
The lucid and engaging writing style of Finley is also applauded by readers. Despite tackling complex and dense subject matter, the author effectively explains the intricacies of ancient Greek history without overwhelming readers. This clarity and accessibility make the book appealing to both academics and casual readers.
Another aspect of "The Portable Greek Historians" that receives positive feedback is its presentation of different perspectives. Reviewers appreciate how the book allows them to explore multiple viewpoints on historical events, enriching their understanding of ancient Greece. Additionally, Finley's commentary provides valuable insights that enhance the reading experience and highlight key themes and debates.
While the book is primarily aimed at students and scholars, reviewers mention its accessibility to a wider audience. They praise Finley for making Greek historical texts approachable, even for those with little prior knowledge of the subject. Some readers claim that this book sparked their interest in ancient history and encouraged them to delve deeper into the subject.
GreekHistorians PortableBooks AncientHistory