Discover the profound influence of the Ancient Greeks on global civilization with this captivating book by renowned French historian Marcel Detienne. Dive into a unique exploration of how the legacy of the Greeks transcends cultural boundaries and informs societies from Europe to Asia and beyond. This comprehensive volume, published by John Wiley & Sons in 2007, challenges traditional Eurocentric narratives and advocates a perspective rooted in comparative anthropology. By examining the beliefs, practices, and political structures of both ancient and modern civilizations, Detienne sheds light on the multifaceted relationships that shape our understanding of democracy, literacy, and mythology today. Perfect for students of history, anthropology enthusiasts, and anyone intrigued by the interconnectedness of cultures, this book redefines our conception of the Greeks and their profound influence on contemporary society. With 184 pages of insightful content, this is an essential read for those seeking to grasp the depth of historical impacts across nations.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled. Condition: BRAND NEW. ISBN: 9780745639017. Year: 2007. Publisher: John Wiley & Sons (UK).

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780745639017
Year: 2007
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons (UK)
Pages: 184


Description:
The human race is all too pre-disposed to think in terms of us and
them. Europeans have always laid claim to the Ancient Greeks they
are our Greeks, our ancestors but their legacy reaches further than
we could ever imagine. Their influence stretches from the Japanese
to the Cossacks, from Ancient Rome to Indonesia.


In this path-breaking new volume, the great French historian
Marcel Detienne focuses on Eurocentric approaches which have
trumpeted the Greeks and their democratic practices as our
ancestors and the superiority of the Western tradition to which
they gave rise. He argues that such approaches can be seen as
narrow-minded and often covertly nationalistic. Detienne advocates
what he calls comparative anthropology which sets out to illuminate
the comparisons and contrasts between the beliefs, practices and
institutions of different ancient and modern societies. Detienne
aims to put the Greeks in perspective among other civilisations and
also to look afresh at questions of political structure, literacy,
nationhood, intellect and mythology.


The work of Marcel Detienne has made an enormous impact on our
thinking about the Greeks in areas such as rationality, literacy
and mythology, and in this new volume he challenges once again our
conception of the Greeks and their impact on the modern world.