The work continues a chronological account of classical Greece from the aftermath of Marathon through the major Persian expeditions and the subsequent decades of Greek interstate conflict, culminating in the Peace of Nicias. It reconstructs Persian preparations and leadership transitions, details Persian interactions with Greek exiles and local collaborators, and highlights the role of prophetic rhetoric in encouraging invasion. The narrative then examines Athenian and Spartan military and diplomatic actions, assessing campaigns, alliances, and strategic outcomes. Throughout, the author engages with Herodotus's accounts, disputes prevailing interpretations, and offers analytical commentary on causation and source reliability.