91 pages • 3 hours read
History of the Peloponnesian War
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Book Brief
410
Book • Nonfiction
Greece • 5th Century BCE
Penguin Books
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
History of the Peloponnesian War by Thucydides recounts the conflict between the Athenian alliance (Delian League) and the Spartan alliance (Peloponnesian League) from 431-404 BC. It portrays key battles, political maneuvers, significant events like the Athenian plague, civil strife, and shifts in power, ending abruptly in 411 BC. The book includes graphic depictions of war, assassination, and enslavement.
Informative
Challenging
Mysterious
Dark
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
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Review Roundup
Thucydides' History of the Peloponnesian War is praised for its detailed and analytical chronicling of the conflict, providing insights into ancient Greek politics and warfare. Reviewers commend its depth, though some find the dense prose and strict impartiality challenging. It remains a seminal, albeit demanding, read for history enthusiasts.
Who Should Read History of the Peloponnesian War?
A reader intrigued by the strategic, political, and ethical dimensions of historical conflicts and their modern relevance would enjoy Thucydides' History of the Peloponnesian War. Similar readers might appreciate Machiavelli's The Prince or Sun Tzu's The Art of War.
39,525 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Pericles:
Pericles:
An influential Athenian statesman and general who led Athens during its Golden Age and the early years of the Peloponnesian War. He was praised by Thucydides for his leadership and integrity.
Cleon:
Cleon:
An Athenian general and political figure, known for his aggressive and influential character. He played a significant role in Athenian politics during the war and died at the battle of Amphipolis.
Brasidas:
Brasidas:
A Spartan general noted for his bravery and leadership, especially at the battle of Amphipolis. Thucydides regarded him as a capable and daring military strategist.
Nicias:
Nicias:
An Athenian general who negotiated peace with Sparta but faced challenges during the Sicilian Expedition. He opposed the expedition but was overruled and later struggled with its disastrous outcome.
Alcibiades:
Alcibiades:
A charismatic and controversial Athenian general known for switching allegiances during the war. He supported the Sicilian Expedition and later defected to Sparta, then to Persia, but eventually returned to Athens.
Hermocrates:
Hermocrates:
A Syracusan general who worked to unite Sicilian tribes against the Athenian invasion. His conciliatory efforts were noted by Thucydides as a parallel to the Greek alliance against Persia.
410
Book • Nonfiction
Greece • 5th Century BCE
Penguin Books
Adult
18+ years
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