Sparta: Fall of a Warrior Nation

This cultural history of Ancient Sparta chronicles the rise of its legendary military power and offers revealing insight into the people behind the myths.



The Spartans of ancient Greece are typically portrayed as macho heroes: noble, laconic, totally fearless. But life was not as simple as this image suggests. In truth, ancient Sparta was a city of contrasts.



We might admire their physical toughness, but Spartans also systematically abused their children. They gave rights to female citizens...