Cover of The History of the Peloponnesian War Volume 2 by Thucydides Audiobook The History of the Peloponnesian War Volume 2
Audiobook · Sovereign

The History of the Peloponnesian War Volume 2

Author
Thucydides
Read by
Finian Silverwood
Language
English
Length
6 hours 53 minutes
ISBN
9781802567786
Published
3 August 2025
Imprint
Sovereign
  • Thucydides
  • history
  • scientific history
  • war
  • politics
  • Greece
  • culture
  • humanity
  • conflict
  • Athens

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Description

The History of the Peloponnesian War by Thucydides is a foundational work of historical and political writing, chronicling the 5th-century BCE conflict between Athens and Sparta. Renowned for its objectivity, analytical depth, and realism, Thucydides examines the causes, events, and consequences of the war, emphasizing human nature, power dynamics, and the fragility of democracy. He dissects pivotal moments like the Plague of Athens, the Sicilian Expedition, and the Melian Dialogue, revealing how fear, honor, and interest drive nations to war. A timeless exploration of politics, ethics, and the costs of imperial ambition.

Author

Thucydides (c. 460–400 BCE) wrote the History of the Peloponnesian War, a cold eye on empire, plague, and the Melian dialogue. Athens and Sparta grind each other down; speeches become weapons; pity is optional. Five titles here. He claimed to write for those who wanted the truth of what happened, not a story that pleased. The first political realism in prose — and it still feels like a warning left on the table overnight.

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