Xenophon 
Hellenica 

Xenophon’s ‘Hellenica’ is a remarkable historical account that picks up where Thucydides’ ‘History of the Peloponnesian War’ leaves off, chronicling the events of Ancient Greece from 411 BC to 362 BC. Written in a clear and concise style, Xenophon provides a detailed narrative of the political and military developments during this tumultuous period, offering critical insights into the rise and fall of Sparta, Athens, and Thebes. His firsthand experiences as a soldier and statesman bring a unique perspective to the events he describes, making ‘Hellenica’ a valuable primary source for historians and classicists alike. This work also reflects Xenophon’s admiration for Spartan society and his belief in the virtues of moderation and justice. Xenophon’s precise writing style and keen observations make ‘Hellenica’ a compelling and informative read for anyone interested in the history of Ancient Greece and the Peloponnesian War.

About the author

Xenophon (c. 430 – 354 BCE) was an ancient Greek historian, soldier, mercenary, and a disciple of Socrates. Born in an Athenian suburb, his works span a panoply of subjects covering history, biography, and philosophy. Xenophon’s ‘Hellenica’ serves as a primary historical source for events in Greece from 411 to 362 BCE, acting as a continuation of Thucydides’ ‘History of the Peloponnesian War’. ‘Hellenica’, covers the closing years of the Peloponnesian War and its aftermath, and is particularly valued for its firsthand accounts of military engagements in which Xenophon himself participated. Beyond ‘Hellenica’, his notable works include ‘Anabasis’, a thrilling recount of the expedition of the Ten Thousand, and the Socratic dialogues such as ‘Memorabilia’. His literary style is characterized by straightforwardness and a lack of rhetorical flourishes, which makes his writing clear and accessible. A man of practical intellect, Xenophon’s works have been influential in both military theory and in the revival of interest in Socrates’ philosophy in later centuries. His treatises on leadership and governance, ‘Cyropaedia’, are considered precursors to modern leadership studies. In sum, Xenophon’s contributions to history and literature render him a significant figure within the canon of Classical Greek literature.