The Greek World (Hardcover)

The work contains new articles by 27 specialists in ancient Greece. Periods studied range from Mycenean to the late Hellenistic; the Greek cultures in question are not only those of mainland Greece but include Asia Minor, Egypt and Italy.
A theme shared by many of the chapters in the volume is social history, and especially the history of those who were, metaphorically, at or beyond the margins of power - Women, the poor and slaves. In addition, several contributors look, in keeping with modern interests, at those who were on the literal margins of the Greek world. The work seeks to show how research into areas once disregarded as marginal can shed vital light on topics and authors traditionally seen as central. For example, Plato's reforms are illuminated through a consideration of his impatient and revolutionary attitude to women. Another essay shows how most potent symbol of old-fashioned, `central' Greek history, the Parthenon, can be understood more fully, as a political symbol, given a knowledge of the cosmetic techniques of (and the gossip about) the women of Classical Athens.
THe Greek World is a uniquely comprehensive and authoritative volume, in which social and political history interact in a way which is stimulating and enlightening. It is an essential library purchase for all scholars of ancient Greece.

eBook available with sample pages: PB:0415170427 EB:0203042166