Luxury and Wealth in Sparta and the Peloponnese

This book explores the role of luxury and wealth at Sparta and among its Peloponnesian neighbors from the Iron Age to the Hellenistic period, challenging the stereotype that Spartans abstained from luxury. It analyzes wealth production and private and public spending, emphasizing features distinctive to Sparta and the Peloponnese.

Format: Hardback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 27 October 2022
Publisher: Classical Press of Wales

A Spartan lifestyle is often associated with austerity, while ancient Greek luxury was closely linked to Ionia and the Eastern world. However, this book challenges the prevailing stereotype by delving into the role of luxury and wealth at Sparta and among its Peloponnesian neighbors during the Iron Age to the Hellenistic period. Presented at a conference organized by the University of Nottingham's Centre for Spartan and Peloponnesian Studies, the contributions to this book aim to reverse the notion that Sparta abstained from luxury.

An international team of specialists, utilizing a diverse range of literary, archaeological, epigraphic, and numismatic evidence, conducts an in-depth investigation into the definition and evolving meanings of the term "luxury" and its closest ancient Greek counterparts. Their research provides fresh insights into Sparta's purported aversion to luxury, as portrayed by ancient writers. The book explores wealth production and private and public spending, highlighting distinctive features of Sparta and the Peloponnese compared to other regions of ancient Greece.

Furthermore, other chapters delve into contemporary issues that remain relevant today: economic crises and debt, austerity measures, and provisions for the underprivileged. By examining these topics, the book offers valuable perspectives on the enduring themes of luxury, wealth, and societal dynamics throughout history.

Weight: 740g
Dimension: 165 x 242 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910589830