The Ancient Greeks: History and Culture from Archaic Times to the Death of Alexander offers students a comprehensive introduction to the history and culture of the ancient Greek world for the period c.800-323 BC. It provides critical background to the key historical developments of the time: the Persian Wars, the rise of Athens and its empire in the 5th century and the subsequent Peloponnesian War, and the emergence of Macedon as a world power under Philip and Alexander. A chapter dedicated to Sparta provides students with crucial understanding of this important but enigmatic kingdom. However, The Ancient Greeks moves beyond political history to include social sections on women, religion and slaves, offering extensive coverage of the social and religious environment.

The book is lavishly illustrated, with over 150 maps, illustrations and photographs, and includes a chronological table and glossary of key terms. With close referencing to Ancient Greece: Social and Historical Documents from Archaic Times to the Death of Alexander (third edition) and accompanied by a companion website, this volume provides invaluable support for students of ancient Greek history and civilization, and offers a comprehensive introduction for the interested reader.

‘The Ancient Greeks is a valuable new textbook ... Written in a lucid and approachable style, the book is extensively illustrated with figures and maps. The Ancient Greeks along with its companion the Ancient Greece sourcebook will make an excellent resource for students registered in ancient Greek history courses as well as the wider public interested in this fascinating period of Greek history.’ - Zinon Papakonstantinou, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA

‘This volume admirably fulfils its professed aims in providing both the student reader and other interested parties with a comprehensive introduction to the history and culture of the Greek world c.800-323 bc. ... The focus is not merely on historical sources but also a wide array of archaeological materials – many of which appear as illustrations – together with numerous tables, maps and plans. There is, in short, everything one could wish for (and more!) when teaching a course in Greek history.’ - Joseph Skinner, University of Liverpool, UK

Matthew Dillon is Associate Professor of Ancient History, School of Humanities, University of New England, Australia. His main research interests are ancient Greek history and religion.

Lynda Garland is a Professor and Head of the School of Humanities, The University of New England, Australia. Her main research interests are in the areas of ancient history and Byzantine Studies.