51 pages • 1 hour read
Gates of Fire
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Book Brief
400
Novel • Fiction
Thermopylae • 5th century BC
1998
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield is a historical novel recounting the Battle of Thermopylae through flashbacks narrated by Xeones, a wounded Greek survivor, to the Persian court, highlighting his youth, Spartan training, and the battle's events that led to the Greeks' renowned defiance and sacrifice against the Persians. This book includes descriptions of injury, violence, and death.
Gritty
Adventurous
Mysterious
Emotional
Dark
Reviews & Readership
48,777 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Steven Pressfield's Gates of Fire is highly praised for its vivid depiction of the Battle of Thermopylae and compelling character development. Readers appreciate its historical accuracy and immersive storytelling. However, some criticize its dense military jargon and graphic content. Overall, it stands out for bringing ancient history to life.
Who Should Read Gates of Fire?
A reader who would enjoy Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield is likely a fan of historical fiction focused on epic battles and ancient warrior cultures. Comparable to readers of The Iliad by Homer and The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller, they appreciate vivid storytelling, rich details, and strong character development in a historical context.
48,777 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
400
Novel • Fiction
Thermopylae • 5th century BC
1998
Adult
18+ years
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