The Birth of Classical Europe: A Historical Account from Trojan War to Augustine

Summary

“The Birth of Classical Europe” is a historical account that explores ancient European history, beginning with the Trojan War and concluding with the time of Augustine. The book is divided into nine chapters, covering major periods of ancient European history. The book examines European history through various lenses such as art and literature, and references multiple maps, plates, and figures for added insight. Additionally, the book contains suggested readings, date charts, and indexes for further reading.

Table of Contents

• The Aegean World, Minoans, Mycenaeans, and Trojans (c.1750-1100 BC)
• Mediterranean, Levant and Middle Europe (1100-800 BC)
• Greece’s Place in the Western Mediterranean (800-334 BC)
• Greece, Phoenicians, and Asia (800-334 BC)
• Alexander the Great and the Hellenistic World (334-146 BC)
• Rome, Carthage, and the West (500-146 BC)
• Rome, Italy, and the Empire (146 BC – AD 14)
• Roman Empire (AD 14-284)
• Later Roman Empire (AD 284-425)

Q&A

• Q: What is the main focus of “The Birth of Classical Europe”?
  A: The main focus of the book is to examine the origins of Classical Europe through different lenses such as art and literature.
• Q: How does the book begin?
  A: The book begins with the analysis of the story of Europa and the bull, a Greek myth, which in modern day takes on a new meaning of being a symbol for the place of Crete in the history of Europe. However, the book highlights that the meaning of the story in antiquity was different, and it was interpreted differently by different regions in Greece.
• Q: Are there any additional resources provided in the book?
  A: Yes, the book contains suggested readings, date charts, and indexes for further reading.
• Q: Is the book divided into different periods of ancient European history?
  A: Yes, the book is divided into nine chapters, covering major periods of ancient European history.
• Q: Are there any images included in the book?
  A: Yes, the book contains various images of ancient artifacts such as coins, sculptures, and architecture. Additionally, there are maps, plates, and figures that offer insight and clarity.
• Q: Can you give examples of the ancient artifacts that are in the book?
  A: Some examples of the artifacts in the book are: coins, sculptures, architecture, reconstructions of military harbors and tombs, and submarine images of the Madrague de Giens wreck.
• Q: Does the book explore ancient Europe solely through literature and art?
  A: No, the book examines European history through various lenses, including literature and art, but also through a detailed historical account covering an extensive span of time.
• Q: Is “The Birth of Classical Europe” solely about ancient Greece and Rome?
  A: No, the book explores the development of classical Europe from the time of the Trojan War to the time of Augustine. The book includes the examination of various ancient civilisations such as the Minoans, Mycenaeans, Trojans, Phoenicians, and Hellenistic kingdoms.
• Q: What are some of the maps and plates in the book?
  A: There are various maps and plates in the book. The maps highlight the migration of people, the distribution of wine-jars, the domination of Italy, and the languages spoken. Meanwhile, the plates feature various artefacts and structures from ancient civilisations like Knossos, Pylos, Grave Circle A at Mycenae, and a Celtic shield discovered in the Thames.
• Q: How many chapters are in the book?
  A: There are nine chapters in the book, each covering a significant period in ancient European history.

Conclusion

“The Birth of Classical Europe” offers a comprehensive history of ancient Europe from the time of the Trojan War to the time of Augustine. The book explores European history through different lenses, including art and literature, and offers insight into the lives and experiences of ancient civilisations. The inclusion of maps, plates, and figures adds clarity and depth to the historical accounts, making the book engaging and informative. Overall, “The Birth of Classical Europe” is an essential read for scholars and enthusiasts of ancient history.