In the 5th century B.C., Greece was a patchwork country of small, independent city-states whose tendency to fight each other was offset only by strong ties to common cultural elements such as language and a unique style of warfare. While surviving myths emphasize heroics and honor, the reality of ancient Greek warfare was that of regular men dealing with everyday problems. Relying heavily on primary sources such as Herodotus, Thucydides and Plutarch, this volume provides the first-ever tactical level survey of all 173 Greek land engagements which occurred during the 5th century B.C., a seminal period in the history of western warfare.

Using carefully researched logical probabilities to extend surviving records, the author places each battle within its historical context and analyzes it with a view to documenting significant overall patterns of action. The result is not only a detailed study of each battle complete with maps and battlefield diagrams, but also an overview of general trends in 5th century Greek warfare.

About the Author
Fred Eugene Ray, Jr., is the author of both books and articles on the subject of ancient Greek warfare. A retired geologist and oil industry executive, he lives in Bakersfield, California.

Reviews
"essential...truly a labor of love"-ARBA; "amazingly careful research...valuable"-Strategy Page; "very valuable"-The NYMAS Review; "Ray has produced a carefully and well-researched book, the result of which is an important catalogue of Greek land engagements in the 5th century BC. Furthermore, his survey represents a very useful reference to anyone interested in classical combat...this book is written with a poise and polish that cannot help but draw in the reader"-Bryn Mawr Classical Review; "the author is to be congratulated on producing a very well-researched book, and telling a clear history of one hundred years of Greek warfare...splendid...I have no hesitation in recommending it to all"-Ancient Warfare; "significant detail"-Reference Reviews.



Book Information
ISBN 9780786467730
Author Fred Eugene Ray
Format Paperback
Page Count 323
Imprint McFarland & Co Inc
Publisher McFarland & Co Inc
Weight(grams) 562g
Dimensions(mm) 254mm * 178mm * 17mm