What the Greeks Did for Us, Tony Spawforth
What the Greeks Did for Us, Tony Spawforth
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What the Greeks Did for Us

Author: Tony Spawforth

Narrator: Michael Langan

Unabridged: 11 hr 30 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Publisher: Tantor Media

Published: 05/30/2023


Synopsis

An enjoyable, accessible exploration of the legacy of ancient Greece today, across our daily lives and all forms of popular culture

Our contemporary world is inescapably Greek. Whether in a word like "pandemic," a Freudian state of mind like the "Oedipus complex," or a replica of the Parthenon in a Chinese theme park, ancient Greek culture shapes the contours of our lives. Ever since the first Roman imitators, we have been continually falling under the Greeks' spell.

But how did ancient Greece spread its influence so far and wide? And how has this influence changed us?

Tony Spawforth explores our classical heritage, wherever it's to be found. He reveals its legacy in everything from religion to popular culture and unearths the darker side of Greek influence—from the Nazis' obsession with Spartan "racial purity" to the elitism of classical education. Paying attention to the huge breadth and variety of Hellenic influence, this book paints an essential portrait of the ancient world's living legacy—considering to whom it matters, and why.

About Tony Spawforth

Tony Spawforth is emeritus professor of ancient history at Newcastle University. As well as leading cultural tours in Greece, he has presented eight documentaries for the BBC and has published thirteen books, including The Story of Greece and Rome.


Reviews

Goodreads review by Debbie

'An exhaustive exposition of the ways in which the world has defined itself with regard to Greco-Roman antiquity would be nothing less than a comprehensive history of the world.' So quotes Tony Spawforth in his new book, 'What the Greeks Did for Us'. Luckily, and despite the title, such a broad and......more

Goodreads review by Corey

Most of the examples were pretty rote. I was expecting a more insightful analysis with a more interesting theme to unify it all.......more

Goodreads review by Jon

Although the author seems defensive of the half-scholarly, half-casual tone, that was my favorite part of this book. It was very approachable and informative.......more