39 pages • 1 hour read
The Trojan War: A New History
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Book Brief
288
Book • Nonfiction
Troy • Bronze Age
2006
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
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
Reviews & Readership
2,007 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read The Trojan War: A New History?
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
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