A summary of the review on StrategyPage.Com
'Prof. Mitchell (Trinity, Dublin) reexamines the rise and history of “the democracy” at Athens, from its roots in the Greek poleis to its triumphs in the Persian Wars and the “Golden Age” and on to the rise of empire and the disastrous rivalry with Sparta which led to the Peloponnesian War, through to its revival in the early Fourth Century BC. While much of this is well trodden ground, Mitchell does provide some valuable food for thought. For example, he argues that the rise of Athenian imperialism was at least in part the
result of fear, initially of the Persians, later of the Spartans, and still later, fear of appearing weak, a fear that has caused many other great powers to make great blunders. He also points out that in addition to opening the way to the outstanding Athenian achievements in the arts and learning, the rise of the democracy sparked progress in many other aspects of life, such as the economy, military practice, technology, and more. While perhaps at times rather too rosy about Athenian democracy, and the life of the poleis in general, this is a good read for anyone interested in the roots of democracy or the Golden Age. '
For the full review, see StrategyPage.Com
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