A Short History
by Peter Green
The Hellenistic Age chronicles the years 336 to 30 BCE, from the days of Philip and Alexander of Macedon to the death of Cleopatra and the final triumph of Caesars heir, the young Augustus. Peter Greens remarkably far-ranging study covers the prevalent themes and events of those centuries: the Hellenization of an immense swath of the known worldfrom Egypt to Indiaby Alexanders conquests; the lengthy and chaotic partition of this empire by rival Macedonian marshals after Alexanders death; the decline of the polis (city state) as the predominant political institution; and, finally, Romes moment of transition from republican to imperial rule.
Predictably, this is a story of war and power-politics, and of the developing fortunes of art, science, and statecraft in the areas where Alexanders coming disseminated Hellenic culture. It is a rich narrative tapestry of warlords, libertines, philosophers, courtesans and courtiers, dramatists, historians, scientists, merchants, mercenaries, and provocateurs of every stripe, spun by an accomplished classicist with an uncanny knack for infusing life into the distant past, and applying fresh insights that make ancient history seem alarmingly relevant to our own times.
"Starred Review. Green's splendid little study ...provides a brilliant introduction to this crucial transitional period." - PW.
"A readable survey for the nonspecialist with an interest in the ancient world. " - Kirkus.
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