How to Survive in Ancient Greece by Robert Garland

How to Survive in Ancient Greece by Robert Garland ISBN-13: 9781526754707 Paperback: 184 pages Publisher: Pen and Sword History Released: August 19th 2020

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Imagine you were transported back in time to Ancient Greece and you had to start a new life there. How would you fit in? Where would you live? What would you eat? Where would you go to have your hair done? Who would you go to if you got ill, or if you were mugged in the street? All these questions, and many more, will be answered in this new how-to guide for time travellers. This lively and engaging book will help the reader deal with the many problems and new experiences that they will face, and also help them to thrive in this strange new environment.


My Review:
How to Survive in Ancient Greece talked about what daily life was like in Athens during the classical period (specifically in 420 BC). The author used a humorous tone but provided good, educational material. He covered war, work, family, food and clothing, class/social structure, politics, religion, entertainment, marriage, travel, crime, trials, slavery, medical practices, illness, and death. He talked about the differences in how men, women, and children were treated as well as the difference between slaves, poor, and rich. After talking about the different aspects of life, the author had pretend interviews with different types of people (teenage girl, widow, crime victim, politician, philosopher, etc.) talking about their life in ancient Athens. Overall, I'd recommend this entertaining way to learn more about daily life in classical Athens (and some about Sparta).


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.