Review by Choice Review
This is a finely produced book, treating not only the political and social history of the classical world but its cultural history as well-especially well, since the latter constitutes a major emphasis. Its individual chapters (on history, literature, art, philosophy, religion, etc.) are written separately by more than 30 of the leading authorities in those areas. The standard they set is remarkably high and the usual pitfall of such a program-unevenness of treatment and style-has been quite successfully avoided. We can assume that this has not happened by chance but is the product of superb editing. Subjects are dealt with succinctly in language that is direct and jargon free; they have a clarity that should win praise from students and scholars alike. To support the admirable text is a profusion of nearly 300 black-and-white illustrations, ten maps, and 20 striking color plates. Exemplary chapter references are provided. Such a comprehensive work cannot contain everything; regrettably, the first millennium of Greek history (the Mycenaean period) has been virtually omitted, as has the Etruscan phase of ancient Italian culture. Less objectionable is the fact that Roman civilization is not taken beyond the third century CE. These omissions may make the book less than ideal as a text for a course in classical history or civilization; nevertheless, the work is monumental and a must for libraries at all levels.-R.B. Lloyd, Randolph-Macon Woman's College
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Booklist Review
That this weighty tome is both masterful and approachable is the result of wonderful work by the contributing specialists, who mix vast expertise with perfectly fluid presentation. The time span covered here encompasses ancient Greece and Rome a millennium vastly consequential to the development of the West. The authors treat not only politics but society and culture as well. The book is as physically beautiful as it is consistently superior in quality of perception and explanation. Further reading lists appended to the separate chapters; index. BH. 938 Civilization, Classical [CIP] 85-21774
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Library Journal Review
Thirty-two chapters (with select bibliographies) by different authors, plus an introduction and conclusion, survey antiquity from the time of Homer to the fall of the Roman Empire. Part 1 covers Greece, part 2, the Hellenistic age and the evolution of the Roman republic,and part 3, Imperial Rome. The range is wide, embracing history, myth, literary genres, major authors, philosophy, life, society, art, and architecture. All contributors are not equally successful in their attempt to condense, interpret, and inspire, but generally the results are of high quality, and the book is handsomely produced. Recommended for those desiring a one-volume introduction to the classical world.Robert J. Lenardon, Professor Emeritus of Classics, Ohio State Univ., Columbus (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
