Inside Ancient Athens

by Fiona Macdonald

It might well be said that no city has contributed more to human civilization than Athens, the city where Socrates Plato, Aeschylus, Sophicles, Euripides, Pericles, and many other notable individuals were born. From comedy and tragedy, to philosophy and democracy, ancient Athens generated an intellectual light that still reaches us today. In these pages you will not only ready story of Athens, but also watch as the Temple of Zeus is built; visit the Agora, the city's political centre and market-place, where trade and philosophy of discussions take place side by side; enter a family home and visit the Acropolis, originally the entire fortified city. The city at war, religion and the gods, the law counts, the theater, festivals, and a day in the life of a slave, also are explored. Informative text, illustrations, photographs, an overview section on the Greek heritage and its legacy, a timeline, a glossary and a comprehensive index make this an excellent book for the curious reader and budding young historian.

Genres: History

32 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 2005

About the author

Fiona Macdonald studied history at Cambridge University and at the University of East Anglia. She has taught in schools, adult education and university, and is the author of numerous books for children on historical topics.

Reviews

[Andrea M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has 1-3 paragraphs per page and big pictures but the text is small. I would suggest it for ages 10-12. Topics covered are the city-state, farms, defenses, warfare, democracy, the acropolis, gods and temples, the agora, laws, home and family, slaves, theater, sports, crafts and the cemetery. The pictures cover more than half the page. There is a timeline at the back of the book.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good basic child’s guide to Athens. Well laid out and clear. Nothing to excite a child though. Feels pedestrian.

[Michael Prendergast · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good introduction to historical fact. Aimed at the younger market it's facts and figures are basic beginners. A good book