The Spartan Supremacy 412-371 BC

Sparta was a small city that punched above its weight in classical Greece, but only in the late fourth and early third century BC did it seem set to become the dominant power. Few previous books have covered this period, but it is well served by sources and is worthy of study. There are many interesting characters and campaigns, including Alcibiades, Lysander, Agesilaus, Pelopidas, and Epaminondas. Bob Bennett and Mike Roberts untangle the complexities of this important period for the modern reader.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 02 February 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Sparta, a small city, defied its size and played a significant role in the affairs of classical Greece, happily interfering in the affairs of neighboring cities. For two centuries, its warriors were regarded as the epitome of excellence, unmatched in their prowess. However, during a brief period in its long history, in the late fourth and early third century BC, the home of these formidable warriors appeared poised to establish itself as the dominant force in the Greek world. This period encompasses the later stages of the Peloponnesian War, from 412 BC to the Spartan victory in 402, and subsequently leads to the Spartan defeat by the Thebans at Leuctra in 371 BC, marking the beginning of the unraveling of the Spartan Empire. Surprisingly, few previous books have delved into the tumultuous first decades of the fourth century BC, particularly when compared to the extensive coverage of the Peloponnesian War. As the authors explain, while the earlier period benefits from the authoritative account of Thucydides, the period covered here is rich in sources and deserving of scholarly exploration. Within this period, a multitude of intriguing characters emerge, including Alcibiades, Lysander, Agesilaus, Pelopidas, and Epaminondas, among others. Additionally, numerous campaigns and battles are reported in sufficient detail to captivate and elucidate the reader. Bob Bennett and Mike Roberts adeptly unravel the complexities of this significant yet overlooked period for the contemporary reader, offering a valuable contribution to our understanding of ancient Greek history.

Weight: 434g
Dimension: 233 x 157 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399077132