Xenophon & Thucydides 
The History of Peloponnesian War 
According to Contemporary Historians Thucydides and Xenophon

The ‘History of Peloponnesian War’ anthology brings together the masterpiece accounts of ancient warfare, politics, and diplomacy through the lenses of Xenophon, Thucydides, and the insightful commentary by historian J.B. Bury. This collection spans the intricate narratives of the brutal conflict between Athens and Sparta, showcasing a range of literary styles from direct historical recounting to analytical essays that ponder the deeper meanings and outcomes of the war. The anthology stands as a significant contribution to classical studies, offering readers a diverse exploration of one of history’s most fascinating and pivotal eras. The standout pieces within the collection not only narrate the events but invite readers to understand the complex interplay of power, strategy, and human endeavor. The contributing authors and editor collectively bring a rich background of classical scholarship, military history, and historical analysis. Thucydides and Xenophon, both living through the period they describe, offer firsthand accounts filled with strategic insights and philosophical reflections. J.B. Bury, with his expertise in ancient Greek history, provides a modern interpretation that bridges the ancient texts with contemporary understanding of historical events. Their varied perspectives, rooted in different historical and cultural contexts, enrich the collection, aligning it with scholarly movements that emphasize the importance of multidisciplinary approaches to understanding history. This anthology is recommended for students, scholars, and enthusiasts of classical antiquity and military history. It presents a unique opportunity to engage with the multifaceted aspects of the Peloponnesian War, from the tactical maneuvers on the battlefield to the political machinations behind the scenes. Readers will benefit from the educational value of the texts, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the events and their lasting impact on Western civilization. The dialogue fostered between the different authors’ works encourages a deeper exploration and appreciation of this tumultuous period in history.

About the author

Xenophon, an ancient Greek philosopher, historian, soldier, and student of Socrates, was born around 430 BCE, possibly in Athens, and died in 354 BCE. Xenophon’s substantial contributions to the literature of his time were marked by a clear and plain style of writing, which was distinct from his contemporaries. A man of remarkable versatility, he authored several works, the most notable being ‘Anabasis, ‘ which recounts the expedition of Cyrus the Younger and the ten-thousand Greek mercenaries. Although ‘The History of Peloponnesian War’ is often attributed to Thucydides, Xenophon’s ‘Hellenica’ serves as the sequel to Thucydides’ work, completing the narrative of the Peloponnesian War and extending the historical account up to 362 BCE. His other significant texts include ‘Cyropaedia, ‘ a partly fictional biography of Cyrus the Great, and ‘Memorabilia, ‘ a collection of Socratic dialogues. As a philosophical author, Xenophon’s works offer invaluable insights into the social, military, and political life of ancient Greece, providing an essential resource for understanding the era’s history and culture. His contributions have been recognized for their historical value as well as their influence on historiography and the development of military memoirs.