From the start, the ancient Greek historians demonstrated that historical writing could go beyond a mere chronicle of past events. This anthology contains selections by the era's titans—Herodotus, Thucydides, Xenophon, and Plutarch—with commentary on each author's interest in religion, leadership, character, and the lessons of war. The book is rounded out with maps, footnotes providing context and explaining obscurities, and an appendix on the Greek conduct of war.