Sir Moses Finley was an influential classical scholar who fundamentally shifted the understanding of ancient societies. His work was characterized by a profound interest in the social and economic aspects of the ancient world. Finley rejected the application of modern economic theories to the ancient economy, instead emphasizing that status and civic ideology were the dominant driving forces in antiquity. His approach broadened classical studies from philology to a wider cultural, economic, and social context, laying the groundwork for anthropologically oriented research.
An Athenian general of the fifth century B.C. chronicles the disastrous 27-year conflict between Athens and Sparta. Thucydides traces the conflict's roots and provides detailed, knowledgeable analyses of battles and the political atmosphere.
Leaders and followers -- Athenian demagogues -- Democracy, consensus and the national interest -- Socrates and after -- Censorship in classical antiquity.
Den engelske Cambridge underviser M.I. Finley om "de gamle Grækere"--Kultur, kunst og historie - fra den Arkaiske over den Klassiske til den Hellenske tid under Romerriget.
Focusing on the origins and development of slave societies in ancient Greece and Italy, the author examines the moral, social, and economic foundations that enabled their success. The analysis extends to a comparison with modern slave societies in the New World, providing insights into the evolution of slavery across different historical contexts. Through this exploration, the book sheds light on the complexities and implications of slavery in both ancient and contemporary settings.
A definitive survey of the Olympic games, from 776 B.C. to A.D. 261, this scholarly, yet immensely readable account of Olympic athletes in ancient times takes a highly realistic view of these fabled contests. Transporting readers back to the eighth century b.c., Professor M. I. Finley and Dr. H. W. Pleket draw upon their extensive knowledge of the ancient world to explain in absorbing detail the various sporting events and their historical, social, and religious context. They also detail the similarities and differences between ancient and modern games.Through their examination of ancient documents, the authors conclude that today's audiences would be astonished by the brutality exhibited in many of the Olympic events. The ferocity of boxing and wrestling matches, for example, is unparalleled in modern games. No event today could match the spectacle or excitement of the four-horse chariot races in which thirty to forty teams competed. Of special interest were the demands made by the victors, who expected, insisted upon, and procured material rewards for their victories, regardless of class or personal fortune.Richly illustrated with rare artwork, this authoritative account of one thousand years of early Olympic history will appeal not only to classical scholars but to all those interested in sports and athletic events.
Focusing on the Greek Dark Ages, this work offers an insightful exploration of the society that inspired the "Iliad" and the "Odyssey." It vividly portrays the lives, morals, and values of the era's people. Renowned for its groundbreaking approach to ancient social history, the study balances scholarly rigor with accessibility, making it essential for both professionals and general readers. This edition, introduced by classicist Bernard Knox, serves as a vital resource for anyone studying Homer and the cultural context of Homeric Greece.
In this study of Greek and Roman history, the author addresses the limitations imposed by the available evidence, stressing the fact that there is much that the modern scholar cannot learn by consulting the ancient sources. With emphasis on the fundamental importance of asking the right questions, he challenges the special status accorded to classical texts and exposes the flaws in the traditional approach to ancient history. He even goes on to suggest alternative methods for re-constructing history.
