ABSTRACT
This chapter on the Peloponnesian War begins with a discussion of Thucydides, before going over the key phases of the war. Next, it treats strategic and tactical innovations, including siege warfare, light-armed troops and mercenaries, permanent bases in enemy territory, and the novelty of attacking the enemy indirectly by striking imperial holdings and allies. The chapter then explores the war-time careers of Pericles, Alcibiades, Brasidas, and Lysander. Finally, it considers the effect of the war on the Greek psyche, especially through the plays of Aristophanes and Euripides.
