The History of the Peloponnesian War
Thucydides' comprehensive account of the Peloponnesian War (431-404 BCE) between Athens and the Peloponnesian League. The history covers the conflict's origins, major military campaigns, political upheaval including the oligarchic revolution, and pivotal naval battles, examining both the grand strategic movements and the human dimensions of prolonged warfare.
Divisions
- Book I0 / 18
Ancient Greek history from earliest times through the immediate causes of the war, including Athens' rise to power and the Lacedaemonian decision to declare war.
- Book II0 / 6
First and second years of the war, the plague at Athens, Pericles' Funeral Oration, and the siege of Potidaea.
- Book III0 / 1
Fourth and fifth years of the war, the revolt of Mitylene, the siege of Plataea, and naval operations.
- Book IV0 / 2
Sixth and seventh years of the war, including major campaigns in Thrace and Sicily.
- Book V0 / 4
Eighth through fifteenth years of the war, the Melian Dialogue, and preparations for the Sicilian Expedition.
- Book VI0 / 0
The Sicilian Expedition, its inception, planning, and initial military operations in Sicily.
- Book VII0 / 4
Continued Sicilian campaign, the Athenian disaster, and the destruction of the Athenian fleet.
- Book VIII0 / 40
Sixteenth through twenty-first years of the war, the oligarchic revolution at Athens, Alcibiades' intrigues, and the battle of Cynossema.