Books with title The Ancient Greeks

The ancient Greeks were famous for their love of competition and athleticism. Their most important sporting festival, held at Olympia and honoring Zeus, became the inspiration for our modern Olympic games. It was open to the citizens of every Greek polis, and became so important, that all warfare had to be suspended for its duration. This book runs through the entire five-day session of the ancient games. The athletes' training and the actual sporting events--some familiar, some quite strange to the modern reader--are described in vivid detail and illustrated with both classical art from the collections of the British Museum and photographs of the modern Games. Day Two, for instance, starts with morning activities (a procession into the hippodrome, chariot and horse races), followed by the afternoon pentathlon events (discus, javelin, running, jumping, and wrestling), and ends with the evening celebration (winners' parade, victory hymns, feast, and revels). Supplemental sidebars--such as Homer's description of Odysseus' triumphant discus throw and an explanation of why athletes and trainers had to appear naked--add lively, colorful detail. Commentary on the modern Games and a running comparison of modern and ancient athletic events is scattered throughout the book, providing an important historical perspective on today's Olympics. Three supplemental chapters--"Women at the Olympics," "Games Elsewhere in Greece," and "The End of the Olympics"--complete this fascinating look at ancient Greek customs, competitive spirit, and character.

There's so much to digest when it comes to History - how do you know where to begin? These incredible short introductions are just the thing for readers who are beginning to explore ancient history. Get to know the basics on Ancient Greece from religious ceremonies to day to day life, with easy-to-digest, humorous text that is reminiscent of the bestselling Horrible Histories series. James Davies' stunning artwork and infographics provide a fresh nonfiction approach that is sure to captivate young readers.

Ever wondered what life was really like for people in the past? The At Home With series will show you. Let us take you behind the scenes to reveal the fashions, fads and secrets of the past. And don't miss our famous guides for tourists in the ancient world! The Greeks get the credit for having invented democracy, philosophy ... and the Olympic Games. But what was life like at home? Find out in the great guide to the Greek world ... and learn why one of ancient Greece's greatest thinkers told people not to eat beans! A fun take on a Key Stage 2 National Curriculum topic!

There's so much to digest when it comes to History - how do you know where to begin? These incredible short introductions are just the thing for readers who are beginning to explore ancient history. Get to know the basics on Ancient Greece from religious ceremonies to day to day life, with easy-to-digest, humorous text that is reminiscent of the bestselling Horrible Histories series. James Davies' stunning artwork and infographics provide a fresh nonfiction approach that is sure to captivate young readers.