Subject
Greece -- History Books
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William Miller
Essays on the Latin Orient
"Essays on the Latin Orient" by William Miller is a collection of historical essays written in the early 20th century. The publication examines various aspects of the Latin influence in the Eastern Mediterranean, focusing particularly on Greece and the Balkans. The essays cover a range of topics from the Roman conquest of Greece to the Byzantine and Venetian periods, shedding light on the historical complexities and interactions among different cultures in the region. The opening of the volume establishes the context of its essays by discussing Greece's historical trajectory following the Roman conquest. It highlights how Greece lost its independence for nearly two millennia, addressing key dynamics such as the interaction of Latin nobles with the local populace, the preservation of Greek identity amidst foreign rule, and the effects of various invasions on the cultural and political landscape of the area. This sets the stage for the subsequent essays that delve deeper into the specific influences and events that shaped the Latin Orient, providing readers with a foundational understanding of the historical narrative the author intends to unfold.
Marcius Willson
Mosaics of Grecian History
"Mosaics of Grecian History" by Marcius Willson and Robert Pierpont Wilson is a historical account likely written in the late 19th century. The authors aim to provide a trustworthy and engaging narrative about Greece, addressing a broad audience beyond just scholars or students. Rather than relying solely on formal historical texts, the authors believe that history should be presented in a way that resonates with the general populace, intertwining facts with myth and poetic illustration to enhance interest. The opening of the work establishes the authors' intention to make Greek history accessible and enjoyable to readers of all backgrounds. They critique standard historical texts for being overly dry and inaccessible and assert that a more lively approach, which incorporates elements of mythology and poetry, would engage readers more effectively. The authors also provide a brief overview of significant historical accounts that have previously been published, emphasizing their scope and style, and paving the way for their own unique perspective on Grecian history to unfold as the narrative progresses.
George Grote
History of Greece, Volume 01 (of 12)
"History of Greece, Volume 01 (of 12)" by George Grote is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This first volume, titled "Legendary Greece," explores the myths and early history of Greece, examining the pantheon of gods and heroes, and their relevance to the Greek cultural and historical narrative. The work aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of ancient Greek civilization, its intellectual achievements, and the foundational myths that shaped early Greek thought. The opening of the historical account establishes the basis for understanding Greek mythology and its integral role in shaping Greek identity. Grote begins by discussing the gods of Greek mythology, detailing their relationships, powers, and functions within the mythic world, and emphasizing how these deities, such as Zeus, Poseidôn, and Hadês, were perceived by the ancient Greeks. He presents the legendary narratives surrounding these gods, particularly the tales of their origin, conflicts, and the broader implications of these stories on the Greek worldview, highlighting their societal and cultural significance while acknowledging the challenges posed by the scant historical evidence from ancient times.
George Grote
History of Greece, Volume 12 (of 12)
"History of Greece, Volume 12 (of 12)" by George Grote is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume marks the culmination of a comprehensive examination of Greek history, focusing particularly on the reign of Alexander the Great, his military campaigns, and the subsequent impact on the Greek world. Grote's work delves into the complex dynamics of Macedonian rule over Greece, the resistance of various city-states, and the deep-seated rivalry and political maneuvers that characterize this historic period. At the start of the volume, the author sets the stage following the assassination of Philip of Macedon and the ascension of his son, Alexander. The opening discusses Alexander's age, his education under Aristotle, and his early actions that defined his rule amidst precarious family dynamics and political turbulence. The passage highlights the changing nature of Greek autonomy under Macedonian dominance, as Alexander first consolidates power domestically before moving to quell the burgeoning aspirations for freedom among the Greek city-states. Through his skilled rhetoric and military might, Grote illustrates the formidable challenges Alexander faced in maintaining his father's empire and the looming opposition he would encounter throughout his endeavors.
H. A. (Hélène Adeline) Guerber
The Story of the Greeks
"The Story of the Greeks" by H. A. Guerber is an elementary history book intended for young readers, written in the late 19th century. This work is designed for supplementary reading or as an introductory history text, presenting the rich tapestry of Greek history through engaging tales and legends. It covers pivotal moments and figures in ancient Greek civilization, intended to both inform and inspire young minds about the virtues of perseverance and courage. At the start of the narrative, the backdrop of Greece is introduced, highlighting its geographical significance as a land surrounded by mountains and sea, and its early inhabitants, the Pelasgians. The text describes the transition from rudimentary existence to more organized society with the advent of Egyptian colonists, such as Inachus and Cecrops, who teach the Pelasgians essential skills like agriculture and architecture. The opening chapters set the stage for discussions of legendary figures and mythological events, indicating that the following stories will blend historical facts with fantastical elements to bring Greece’s past to life for children.
George Grote
History of Greece, Volume 02 (of 12)
"History of Greece, Volume 02 (of 12)" by George Grote is a comprehensive historical account written in the mid-19th century. This volume primarily covers the legendary period of Greece, detailing the mythological narratives leading up to the historical transformation of the region and significant events such as the return of the Herakleids and subsequent migrations. Additionally, it addresses the socio-political changes and territorial shifts that occurred as various Greek tribes established themselves in Peloponnesus. The opening of the work begins by recounting the return of the Herakleids to Peloponnesus, following their earlier exile. It delves into the mythical foundations of key families within Greece, notably the Perseids and Pelopids, and the alliances formed during their attempts to reclaim their ancestral lands. The text explains the dynamics of this legendary period, introducing figures such as Hyllus, Têmenus, and Kresphontês, and depicts how these legendary narratives set the stage for the eventual emergence of historical Greece. The discussion includes the implications of these myths for understanding the social and political institutions that later characterized the Dorian states.
George Grote
History of Greece, Volume 10 (of 12)
"History of Greece, Volume 10 (of 12)" by George Grote is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This volume continues the exploration of Greek history, specifically focusing on significant events from the era of the Syracusan despot Dionysius and the overall decline of Hellenic independence amidst external pressures, particularly from Persia. The text delves into the complex interplay of power among the Greek states and their relationships with outside forces. The opening of the volume sets the stage by outlining the preceding events that lead to the discussions surrounding the Peace of Antalkidas, a pivotal moment in Greek history. Grote references both the societal and political ramifications of the treaty, depicting it as emblematic of Sparta's shift from a proud leader of Greece to a subordinate agent securing Persian interests. This opening section establishes the thematic focus of the work: the exploration of how individual state ambitions, particularly those of Sparta and Athens, contributed to the deterioration of a united Hellenic identity in the face of foreign domination, and it foreshadows the critical instances of betrayal and compromise that define the period.
George Grote
History of Greece, Volume 05 (of 12)
"History of Greece, Volume 05 (of 12)" by George Grote is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This volume continues the detailed narration of Ancient Greek history, focusing on pivotal events from the Battle of Marathon to the Peace of Nikias, and elaborating on the political and military strategies of both Athens and Persia during this tumultuous period. The opening of this volume begins with a preface that outlines the historical timeline covered, emphasizing the sustained conflict between Greece and Persia. It sets the stage by revisiting the aftermath of the Persian defeat at Marathon and the subsequent preparations for invasion by Xerxes, the new Persian king. Grote introduces key figures, such as Darius and Xerxes, detailing their motivations and the extensive military logistics involved in the Persian campaign against Greece. The narrative foreshadows the exploration of religious interpretations alongside the political maneuvers that ultimately shape the course of events leading to notable battles in the Greco-Persian Wars.
George Grote
History of Greece, Volume 03 (of 12)
"History of Greece, Volume 03 (of 12)" by George Grote is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This volume continues the exploration of ancient Greek history, focusing on the political dynamics of several key city-states, including Corinth, Sikyôn, and Megara, during the age of despotism. The text delves into the governmental structures, the rise and fall of oligarchies, and the emergence of despotic rulers in these regions, providing insights into the transformation of Greek political thought. At the start of this volume, the narrative picks up from the previous discussions on Sparta and introduces the three Dorian cities of Corinth, Sikyôn, and Megara around the time of Peisistratus's reign in Athens. Grote outlines the early maritime and commercial prowess of Corinth, the shifts toward oligarchical governance, and the subsequent rise of despotic rulers such as Kypselus and Theagenês. The text also highlights the socio-political context of these changes, indicating a broader trend towards despotism across Greek city-states in the 7th and 6th centuries B.C. Additionally, it reflects on how these governments marked significant developments towards political engagement and the complexities of power balance in ancient Greece.
George Grote
History of Greece, Volume 04 (of 12)
"History of Greece, Volume 04 (of 12)" by George Grote is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume continues the exploration of ancient Greek history, focusing on various tribes such as the Illyrians, Macedonians, and Pæonians, as well as interactions between these groups and the Greek colonies. The work meticulously dissects geographical, sociopolitical, and cultural dynamics during the classical antiquity period, serving as a foundational text for understanding the complexities of Greek history. At the start of the volume, Grote delves into the territories occupied by the Illyrians and Macedonians, distinguishing their different tribes and cultures. He outlines their geographical boundaries and describes their customs, including the fierce nature of the Illyrians, who were known for their martial skills and rudimentary tribal structures. The opening sections provide a rich tapestry of early Greek interactions with these neighboring tribes, setting the stage for the intricate historical developments that would follow, including insights into the origins of the Macedonian dynasty that ultimately led to the rise of figures like Alexander the Great.
William Scott Ferguson
Greek Imperialism
"Greek Imperialism" by William Scott Ferguson is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work is based on a series of lectures that explore the political evolution and imperial practices of ancient Greece, particularly highlighting the dynamics of city-states and their transitions into imperial entities. Ferguson examines the theoretical and practical aspects of governance from leading city-states such as Athens and Sparta through the rise and fall of empires like those of Alexander and the Hellenistic successors. The opening of the book introduces the thesis that the city-states of ancient Greece were inherently limited in their capacity for unification and growth due to their nature as unicellular organisms that could not easily form larger political entities. Ferguson defines key terms related to imperialism and sets the stage for a detailed examination of Greek imperial development, emphasizing the ongoing struggle against imperialism and the eventual emergence of political structures that integrated city-states into larger federations. He discusses various historical examples, hinting that despite their fierce independence, the Greek city-states ultimately yielded to the need for greater unity in the face of external threats, paving the way for the rise of empires that would eventually lead to the domination of Rome.
George Grote
History of Greece, Volume 08 (of 12)
"History of Greece, Volume 08 (of 12)" by George Grote is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This volume delves into the intricate political dynamics and power struggles during a tumultuous period in Ancient Greek history, particularly focusing on the Peloponnesian War and the surrounding events that led to significant changes in governance, including the establishment of an oligarchy in Athens. The beginning of this volume sets the stage for examining the vital events that unfolded in Athens following its setbacks in the war, particularly highlighting the role of the controversial figure Alkibiadês. The narrative discusses Athens' unexpected recovery and subsequent divisive political currents, including conspiracies for oligarchy that arose in response to increasing threats from both the Peloponnesians and Persia. Grote expresses the complexities of Athenian politics, the impact of personal ambitions, and the vital necessity of external support, revealing the precarious balance of power as the city navigated internal dissent and external conflict.
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