The Fabric of Gifts

The conflict between Agamemnon and Achilles highlights the significance of honor and esteem in Archaic Greece, where personal relationships and gift-giving shaped social dynamics alongside economic transactions. This narrative serves as a backdrop to explore deeper themes of value and exchange, linking ancient practices to modern economic debates, including those by 19th-century economists and contemporary philosopher Yanis Varoufakis. The book delves into the implications of these exchanges, illustrating their enduring relevance in understanding human relationships and societal structures.