History of Greece, Volume 05 (of 12)

Chapter 2: PREFACE TO VOL. V.

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About This Book

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.

PREFACE TO VOL. V.

VOLUMES V AND VI.

FROM THE BATTLE OF MARATHON
TO THE PEACE OF NIKIAS.

B. C. 490-421.

I had reckoned upon carrying my readers in these two volumes down to the commencement of the great Athenian expedition against Syracuse.

But the narration of events, now that we are under the positive guidance of Thucydidês,—coupled with the exposition of some points on which I differ from the views generally taken by my predecessors,— have occupied greater space than I had foreseen: and I have been obliged to enlarge my Sixth Volume beyond the usual size, in order to arrive even at the Peace of Nikias.

The interval of disturbance and partial hostility, which ensued between that peace and the Athenian expedition, will therefore be reserved for the beginning of my Seventh Volume, the publication of which will not be long delayed.

G. G.

Dec. 1848.