Stories from Thucydides

Stories from Thucydides distills key episodes from the History of the Peloponnesian War into accessible narratives. It recounts the brutal conflict between Athens and Sparta, highlighting power struggles, political ambition, and the fragility of democracy. Through speeches, battles, and moral dilemmas—like the Melian Dialogue and the Plague of Athens—it reveals timeless insights into human nature, justice, and the costs of war. A foundational work of realism, it explores how fear, honor, and interest drive nations and individuals, offering enduring lessons on leadership, ethics, and the cyclical nature of history.