A History of the Classical World: The Story of Ancient Greece and Rome

by Elizabeth Wyse

This fascinating guide chronicles the rise and fall of ancient Greece and Rome and its cultural influence today.

From palace-based societies in Minoan Crete to the Germanic invasion of Rome, it tells the story of these classical civilizations, covering their political development, the rise of the city state and the growth of their empires. Also included are insights into the architectural, artistic and cultural impact of early Greece and Rome and vignettes of key political and cultural figures.

Accompanied by features on major developments, detailed maps and superb photographs, this is a fascinating introduction to the two great empires that shaped the modern world.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Ancient History

304 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2023

Reviews

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elizabeth Wyse’s A History of the Classical World offers an engaging and accessible overview of ancient Greece and Rome, bringing to life the key figures, events, and cultural developments that shaped the Western world. Her writing is clear, concise, and informative, making this book a great introduction for those new to classical history while still offering insights for more knowledgeable readers.

The strength of this book lies in its ability to balance the historical narrative with the cultural and philosophical achievements of both civilizations. Wyse provides a well-rounded picture of not just wars and politics, but also the intellectual, artistic, and societal advancements that defined these ancient empires.

While the book is certainly informative, it does sometimes skim over some of the more complex or nuanced aspects of ancient history. There are moments when I would have liked a deeper dive into specific events or figures. Additionally, some sections feel a little rushed, particularly toward the end, where the focus shifts rapidly from the fall of Rome to later developments in European history.

That said, Wyse’s writing style is engaging enough to hold the reader’s attention, and the book's broad scope makes it a valuable resource for anyone wanting a solid overview of the classical world. It’s an excellent starting point for further exploration into the histories of Greece and Rome, and the ideas, politics, and cultures that have continued to influence the modern world.

Overall, A History of the Classical World is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the foundations of Western civilization, offering a clear, insightful, and engaging overview.

[Vicuña · Rating 5 out of 5]

To my shame, I’ve always been aware of ‘the classical world’ but know relatively little about these ancient civilisations. I know they’re different, I know they coexisted, to some extent and that they have all helped to shape the world in which we now live. I’ve looked at titles before but found them better suited for academic study rather than the Kay person. At last , there’s an informed and comprehensive overview and over recent days, I’ve become immersed in the classical world.

Elizabeth Wyse presents the complexities of these civilisations in a very accessible way. The audio version is really well narrated and very easy on the ear. It’s delivered at just the right lace and I’ve enjoyed every moment. There’s a treasure trove of information here. I’ve learned so much about how the different societies developed and changed. Some ruled by despots, some democracies and most of all, I’ve gained a deep appreciation of just how far the Greeks, Romans, Cretans and more have influenced law, social habits, societal structures etc for thousands of years, it’s absolutely fascinating and this is a book I’ll listen to again. It’s packed with detail and a true overview of social, political and cultural history. I genuine gem of non fiction which I heartily recommend.

[Tzu · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a pleasant read. Elizabeth’s focus is mainly cultural, which at least for me was refreshing as I tend to pick up more military history books. The 6th and 5th century BCE were discussed the most, but it definitely touched on all centuries and their big events. Being an avid history reader, I knew most already, but I was still able to learn some new things.
Writing was smooth and fluent and most importantly easy to digest. I think I was able to finish the book in about five hours.
Target audience for this book would be anyone with an interest in the classical world, but I wouldn’t suggest it for research or referencing.

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Evan Bullock · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook which I was given for a fair review. The description for this book primarily talks about the illustrations which were obviously not in the audio version. The History summary is good for covering quite a wide swath of time (from Minoan to the Fall of Rome) but the place it takes it for more of a casual history crowd of which the illustrations that go along with it would make much more sense. I did learn a bit from the book mainly because of the author's focus on the culture side to these ancient cultures which is refreshing since most of these type of summaries can be caught up in dates and conquest.

[Jesse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Arcturus Digital Audio for the Audio ARC!

I listened to this book immediately after finishing Everything and More, A Compact History of Infinity by David Foster Wallace. Needless to say, diving into a little classical history was a great palate cleanser, but I was also amazed by how many of the deep topics explored in that book had their roots in the time period explored here. This book is a concise run-through of the most important discoveries, conquests, and other events of a very pivotal period in the history of civilization. At no point was it overwhelming or 'too deep'. I very much enjoyed this book.

[Becki Sims · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a hugely informative listen.

It is engaging and brings to life the people of the time. I knew very little about the era but the synopsis drew me to request it and I'm glad I did.

Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.

[Paul Foley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. I've always intended to learn more about the Classical world and Elizabeth Wyse has provided an excellent primer. Beautifully illustrated and engagingly written, it was a joy to spend time with.
One criticism. I often found I couldn't find places on the maps which were referred to in the text.

[Neville Townsend · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyone interested in ancient greece and Rome or just history should read this, very informative and well written I found myself engrossed and could not put it down.
I received this book from Arcturus and Netgalley for a review.

[Laura Newsholme · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good survey of a vast period of history. I found it accessible and entertaining throughout and works very well as a jumping off point for further reading into specific areas.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[KD · Rating 3 out of 5]

An error on one of the pages. They mixed up the names of Achilles’ mother and father

[Dori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book I enjoyed it!

[ren abernathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

very fun and easy to read for anyone who loves learning about the classical world, though I would have liked for the author to mention that there are often multiple tellings of the myths/stories that she discusses. most of the time, there is not one set myth or story that all of the ancient greeks or romans believed, and more often then not the tellings varied wildly depending on time and region. other than that, i have little to no complaints!