Nigel Spivey Book order

The story of an object once described as 'the finest Greek vase there is', of the culture that produced it, and of the remarkably enduring influence of the scenes depicted on it.

A masterly account of how the cultures of ancient Greece and Rome came into being, by a prize-winning Cambridge classicist whose writing is as accessible as it is scholarly.

Explains the social function and aesthetic achievement of Greek sculpture from c.750 BC to the end of antiquity.

A portrait of the Greek Olympics as they really were - fierce contests between bitter rivals, in which victors won kudos and rewards, and losers faced scorn and even assault. After reading this book, no one will see the Olympics as a graceful display of Greek beauty again, but as war by other means.

The book offers a comprehensive synthesis of the Greek, Roman, and Etruscan worlds, covering a vast historical period from 700 B.C. to the early 4th century A.D. It integrates recent scholarship on various themes such as gender, war, imperialism, and cultural identity, emphasizing the enduring impact of classical antiquity on modern society. The extensive reference section enhances the reader's understanding with biographies, a glossary, and a timeline, making it an invaluable resource for those interested in the foundations of Western civilization.

Most of us would like to know the Greek myths better than we do, and in this book Cambridge academic and BBC presenter Nigel Spivey re-tells the Greek myths as the spellbinding stories they are.

Focusing on Greek art from the 8th to the 2nd century BC, this study explores the evolution of artistic styles and techniques during a pivotal period in ancient history. It delves into the cultural, social, and political influences that shaped the art of the time, highlighting significant works and artists. The analysis provides insights into the aesthetic values and themes prevalent in Greek society, making it a valuable resource for understanding the legacy of Greek art and its impact on subsequent artistic traditions.