Perikles and His Circle
“Perikles and His Circle” by Anthony Podlecki, published by Routledge in 2011, offers an insightful exploration of the life and political evolution of Perikles, a pivotal figure in Classical Athens. This 264-page book delves into his transformation from a hesitant politician to a committed statesman, focusing on his efforts to expand Athens’ maritime empire and enhance the lives of its citizens. The narrative examines Perikles’ relationships with a diverse group of friends, acquaintances, and political adversaries, highlighting how these interactions shaped his leadership.
Readers will find a thorough analysis of Perikles’ actions and the influence of his circle on his development as a leader. The book emphasizes the importance of Athenian superiority and the willingness to assert it, even at the cost of conflict with Sparta and its allies. Podlecki utilizes a wealth of sources to present a comprehensive account of Perikles’ achievements, making the text both informative and accessible. This edition is presented in English and is suitable for those interested in biography, ancient history, and the political landscape of Greece.
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Perikles, the creator of the reputation of Classical Athens was an enigmatic figure. This book traces Perikles’ development from a somewhat hesitant, though left-leaning politician, to a mature statesman fully committed to expanding Athens’ maritime empire and using the material benefits of that empire to improve the ordinary lives of Athenian citizens.
Podlecki examines Perikles’ actions and interactions with a large and varied circle of friends, acquaintances, and political adversaries and shows how his circle of friends advised and influenced his development as a leader. Perikles, the ‘first citizen’, as Thucydides termed him, was a man characterised by a subtle versatility and tenacity of purpose. Of paramount importance was that Athenians be made to appreciate their superiority, and also develop a willingness to assert it, even if that meant war with the Spartans and their allies. Podlecki examines the wealth of sources and documentation on Perikles to provide a lucid account of the achievements of the man, which is both comprehensive and eminently readable.
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