A Classical Primer Ancient Knowledge for Modern Minds

by Crompton, Dan

• ISBN13: 9781843178804
• ISBN10: 184317880X
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2013-05-01
• Publisher: Michael O'Mara

Summary

A basic but enjoyable introduction to the study of the culture of the ancient Greeks and Romans, from the languages to literature, philosophy, art, and much more For those who didn't take Classics at school, or who have forgotten most of what they knew, this primer is a look back at classical civilizationhow they lived, and how many aspects of our own daily lives have been directly influenced by theirs, from roads and concrete, to central heating, the 12-month calendar, cranes, and even pizza. It covers Greek and Latin languages; offers Greek and Roman history in a nutshell from the Bronze Age through the fall of the Roman empire; provides an introduction to Greek literature including The Iliad, The Odyssey, and the Greek tragedies; and covers the basics of Latin literature. It also provides basic background on philosophy, including Socrates and Plato; ancient architecture including the Parthenon and the Colosseum; and science and technology, including such inventions as the alarm clock, the vending machine, flushing toilets, and glass. This handy book shows that even a basic knowledge of Classics is not only essential, but also incredibly fascinating.

Author Biography

Dan Crompton is the author of The World's Oldest Joke Book: Hundreds of Hilariously Terrible Ancient Jokes.

Excerpts

Didn't take Classics at school? Or maybe you've forgotten most of what you once knew? To save you looking it up, Classics is the study of the culture of the ancient Greeks and Romans, and takes in all aspects of their life and learning - from the languages to literature, philosophy, art, and much more besides.A Classical Primeris an accessible and enjoyable look back at classical civilization; how they lived, and how many aspects of our own daily life have been directly influenced by theirs, from roads and concrete, to central heating, the twelve-month calendar, cranes and even the modern-day favourite, pizza! This handy, informative and enjoyable book is the perfect primer for people of all ages, and shows that even a basic knowledge of Classics is not only essential, bus also incredibly fascinating.