Revolution and Society in Greek Sicily and Southern Italy

by Shlomo Berger

The analysis of a Greek political phenomenon within the confines of the so-called colonial city-states of Sicily and Southern Italy is the theme of the present book. On the basis of detailed case-studies covering the revolutions in cities like Croton, Cumae, Acragas and Syracuse, the following subjects are dealt social stratification and political institutions, the massive presence of foreigners and non-Greeks within the borders of the polis, the role of mercenaries in the local armies and in city life. An apart chapter is dedicated to the technique of the coup d'état, showing how it was determined by the peculiarities of the Greek city-state.

Paperback

First published December 1, 1992

About the author

Shlomo Berger, Ph.D., was a Professor of Yiddish Studies in the University of Amsterdam's Department of Hebrew and Jewish Studies.