Reviews

Originally published in England, this encyclopedia covers ancient Greece for the 2000 years up to 146 B.C. A lively, readable text by Sacks, a book reviewer for the New York Times and frequent author of journal articles, is authoritatively supported by the contributions of consultant Oswyn Murray (Oxford History of the Classical World, LJ 1/87). Important places, events, topics, and people are covered in 525 articles, ranging from a paragraph (Aegean Sea) to five pages (Peloponnesian War). There are cross references to related topics and a detailed index. Most terms are also found in Praeger Encyclopedia of Ancient Greek Civilization (1967), and this reviewer finds the photographs in Praeger more effective than the original line drawings by Margaret Bunson in Sacks's work. However, the expanded essays on general topics, e.g., homosexuality, women, etc., provide more insight into the typical lifestyles of the period. A two-part bibliography of nearly 200 basic works is included but no bibliographic documentation. An excellent source for high school and undergraduate students.‘Stanley P. Hodge, Ball State Univ., Muncie, Ind.

YA‘This readable, lively compendium of facts succeeds admirably in its goal of conveying only the "best information." The alphabetical entries are logical, comprehensive, and cross-indexed. They include topics on history, politics, warfare and weaponry, social organizations, the arts, literature, language, mythology, geography, science and technology, clothing, religion, contact cultures-in short, just about anything a novice might look for. As an additional plum, the introductory essay includes a fine overview of classical Greek culture and its influences on our world. Secondary school students with a curiosity about the ancient Western world could do no better than to start their explorations with this authoritative resource.‘Marya Fitzgerald, R. E. Lee High School, Springfield, VA