The Complete Works of Xenophon
Nov 2022 · DigiCat
Ebook
1710
Pages
family_home
Eligible
info
reportRatings and reviews aren’t verified Learn More
About this ebook
Xenophon's "The Complete Works" is a monumental collection that showcases the versatility and depth of one of ancient Greece's most significant thinkers. Comprising historical narratives, philosophical treatises, and practical guides, the anthology includes notable works such as "Anabasis," which recounts his daring journey with the Ten Thousand, and "Memorabilia," a series of dialogues illuminating Socratic philosophy. Written in a lucid and engaging style, Xenophon's texts blend personal experience with meticulous observation, inviting readers into the rich tapestry of classical thought and the vibrant socio-political landscape of his time, marked by the aftermath of the Peloponnesian War. Born into an aristocratic family around 430 BCE, Xenophon was a soldier, historian, and student of Socrates, experiences that informed his writings. His involvement in the military campaigns of his time, particularly as a mercenary leader, provided him with a unique perspective on leadership, ethics, and human resilience. These elements weave through his works, reflecting both the philosophical inquiries of his mentor and the pragmatic challenges of his experiences. For scholars, students, and enthusiasts of classical literature, "The Complete Works of Xenophon" is indispensable. It offers not only a window into the mind of one of history's great figures but also a profound exploration of themes such as courage, loyalty, and the pursuit of knowledge, making it a vital resource for understanding the foundations of Western thought.
About the author
Xenophon (c. 430 – 354 BC) was an ancient Greek philosopher, historian, soldier, mercenary, and a contemporary of Socrates. He is known for his writings on the history of his own times, the sayings of Socrates, and the life of Greece. Xenophon's body of work provides a valuable eye-witness account to the social and military aspects of the Greek world in the late 5th and early 4th centuries BC. His best-known works include 'Anabasis,' which narrates the expedition of the Ten Thousand, a large Greek mercenary army that he led on behalf of a Persian prince against the Persian king; and 'Cyropaedia,' a historical romance on the education of the Persian king Cyrus the Great. He also produced 'Hellenica,' which is the primary source for events in Greece between 411 and 362 BC, and serves as a continuation of Thucydides's history. Xenophon's works are characterized by their clear and simple prose, as well as a practical approach to the matters he discusses. Through 'Memorabilia' and 'Oeconomicus,' he provides invaluable insights into the character and philosophy of his teacher, Socrates. As a literary figure, Xenophon is often seen as transitional between the heavily detailed style of Thucydides and the storytelling historical accounts that became popular in the Hellenistic period. His contribution to literature and philosophy, particularly in regards to his firsthand accounts of Socratic thought, military history, and daily life in ancient Greece, is a testament to his enduring significance in the classical canon (Xenophon, 'The Complete Works of Xenophon').
Rate this ebook
Tell us what you think.
Reading information
Smartphones and tablets
Install the Google Play Books app for Android and iPad/iPhone. It syncs automatically with your account and allows you to read online or offline wherever you are.
Laptops and computers
You can listen to audiobooks purchased on Google Play using your computer's web browser.
eReaders and other devices
To read on e-ink devices like Kobo eReaders, you'll need to download a file and transfer it to your device. Follow the detailed Help Center instructions to transfer the files to supported eReaders.
