History of the Peloponnesian War

First of all, I find it close to impossible to rate such a book as this, as it is truly great as an insight into events that happened thousands of years ago, while the writing and accessibility of the work clearly could have been better. Nevertheless, in my opinion this is a 5-star book, as the detail and insight into a war that took place ~400bc is such a great read. Thucydides shows a himself as a great analyst of the conficts he relates, and instead of just relating the facts, he guides us through the actors motivations and the reasons for what takes place. THAT is the value of this book as far as I'm concerned, the strategic approach to conflict, and the massive amount of strategy in regards to alliances and battles that we get to share through this book. Being a student of political philosophy I read this book because of my fascination with Thomas Hobbes (Allthough not the Hobbes-translation). It will be hard for anyone to understand Hobbes through this though, and I must question the usefulness for most of such a linkage on the whole. There is also a lot of history in this book that will interest a lot of you (Those that are like me), rather little, but one gets through it, and when one is done with the book I truly feel I have gotten a great lecture in strategy and conflict!

Through the use of numerous interviews, tirelessly researching records, and gathering a great deal of evidence, Thucydides "History of the Peloponnesian War" stands as perhaps the first great work of nonfiction in Western history. After generations of epic poems and stories, which included every bit as much exaggeration and mythology as they did truth, Thucydides used the tools of evidence and objectivity to create a reliable historical record of the great war between Athens and Sparta to stand the test of time. This is vital reading if you have even a passing interest in military history, Ancient Greek history, or, really, any history at all.

arrived in perfect condition & quickly.

Haven't read much of it yet. First couple books and skimmed others. I had to educate myself further on the background and culture but neat reading accounts from ancient times other than the Bible. Having this much survive is somewhat of a wonder. Who cares anymore? Yet much of the social conditions offer food for thought and the details in battle are engrossing. Agreed, the print isn't the best. Many characters are faded or missing parts but not enough to slow me down.

More than a simple historical treatise, it is a character study in human nature and its affects on the human actions that make history. A classic of historical works in its detail and insight on human action we know as history. Thucydides is unmatched in his insights, clarity of language and thought, and in his informative description of the history of his time. A must read for anyone wanting to plumb the depths of western civilization and ethos. An enjoyable read for any historiphile. It could use more maps but be sure to check the back of the book for the few it does have.

Thucydides is usually accounted the first "real" historian; because of his use of written material, interviews with participants, and scientific objectivity, he set a precedent that would be held as the ideal for all who followed. Thucydides remarks at the beginning of his book that:"...if these words of mine are judged useful by those who want to understand clearly the events which happened in the past and which (human nature being what it is) will, at some time or other in much the same ways, be repeated in the future." No historian today would claim that the past repeats its self, but, sadly, human nature does. Like some of my fellow reviewers you can see the correlation of the Peloponnesian and Delian leagues with the United Nations and NATO of today. The numerous peace treaties and ambassadorial delegations seem so closely to mirror our present time. This book is at the bedrock of Western Civilization, and must be read to understand the great European conflicts which followed.

"My book was not meant to meet the tastes of an immediate public, but was done to last forever." At 2,430 years, it's on its way. Thucydides has been called the greatest historian of all time, with reason; certainly his work set the conditions for historic chronicles ever since, and the Rex Warner translation is itself a fine work. Grant Hildebrand Seattle

I started off despising my instructor for having us read this book. .. over the course of the book though my point of view changed completely. Even though this book is set 2400-ish years ago its lessons are still powerful today. I can totally see myself reading this one many times throughout my life. ... loved the pericles speeches and book 7 rocks!

Low print quality and thin paper killed off any excitement I had upon recieving the package. I feel this price could have been used better elsewhere.

Thucydides' "History of the Peloponnesian War" is an absolute triumph. From the very first page, I was captivated by the detailed and dramatic account of the conflict between Athens and Sparta. This isn't just a dry recounting of facts; it's a gripping narrative filled with political intrigue, military strategy, and profound human insights. Thucydides' writing style is remarkably modern and his analysis of power, alliances, and the nature of war is as relevant today as it was over two millennia ago. I highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in history, political science, or simply a great story. It's a foundational text that has shaped our understanding of conflict and human nature.

Surprisingly readable for a record from the ancient era. Every page leaves you eager to learn more and if you are interested in learning this period of Greek history then it will absolutely keeped you hooked from beginning to end. Honestly one of the best books I have ever read but that is because I already have a great interest in Ancient Greek history and especially the Persian and Peloponnesian War eras. In short, an essential read for anybody desiring to learn more about classical history. This book briefly describes the rise of (arguably) the most influential metropolis in European history and spares no detail in it's eventual downfall. And that's just Athens. The fate of all other participants in Greece's greatest war, including Sparta, are given just as much respect in regards to why they chose to declare war and how they faired in the conflict. This is not really a review in all honesty. I just typed this up because I was looking at my bookshelf and remembered just how great this book is. Just looking at it reminded me of all I had learned from the book. Possibly my favourite historical book of all time from my favourite historical era of all time. Worth every penny.

Great choice.

The poorly formatted/presented text in this book makes it a chore to read. At 600+ pages, I'm tempted to just throw it in the paper recycling bin.