39 pages • 1 hour read
Barry StraussA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
288
Book • Nonfiction
Troy • Bronze Age
2006
Adult
18+ years
In The Trojan War: A New History, Barry Strauss re-examines the Trojan War through the lens of new archaeological evidence and Bronze Age culture, placing the conflict 500 years before Homer. The text explores motivations behind the war, draws on primary sources like Hittite texts and human remains, and re-contextualizes the epic in the context of contemporary customs, warfare practices, and literary comparisons. Topics include war-related violence and enslavement.
Informative
Contemplative
Mysterious
Adventurous
Melancholic
2,007 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Barry Strauss's The Trojan War: A New History offers a fresh perspective on the ancient conflict, combining historical evidence with literary analysis. Praised for its engaging writing and accessible approach, it is a valuable read for both scholars and general audiences. However, some critics argue it sacrifices depth for readability. Overall, it's a compelling synthesis of history and myth.
Readers who enjoy immersive historical narratives and the epic tales of ancient civilizations will love The Trojan War: A New History by Barry Strauss. Perfect for fans of Mary Beard’s SPQR and Stephen Greenblatt’s The Swerve, this book offers a fresh perspective on legendary events with scholarly precision and accessible prose.
2,007 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
288
Book • Nonfiction
Troy • Bronze Age
2006
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.