J. C. McKeown Knihy

The ancient Greeks were a remarkable civilization, shaping democracy, drama, philosophy, and various art forms and sciences. Yet, they also exhibited bizarre behaviors and beliefs. This uproarious collection of odd stories and facts, drawn from years of teaching about ancient Greek civilization, highlights their similarities and differences from us. Politicians were seen as self-serving, while the overweight pursued dubious diets. Notably, Socrates and the Spartan king entertained children by pretending a stick was a horse. The book raises incredulous questions about their practices: Were scapegoats thrown from cliffs, adorned with feathers and live birds for a fighting chance? Did a werewolf actually win a boxing event at the Olympics? Were prisoners released on bail to enjoy dramatic festivals? Did Pythagoras really fly on a magic arrow? Such quirky mysteries are explored in this richly illustrated journey through the "glory that was Greece." With endorsements from historical figures praising its content and accessibility, this work is deemed a valuable addition to any library and a source of endless intrigue for readers.

Here is a whimsical and captivating collection of odd facts, strange beliefs, outlandish opinions, and other highly amusing trivia of the ancient Romans. We tend to think of the Romans as a pragmatic people with a ruthlessly efficient army, an exemplary legal system, and a precise and elegant language. A Cabinet of Roman Curiosities shows that the Romans were equally capable of bizarre superstitions, logic-defying customs, and often hilariously derisive views of their fellow Romans and non-Romans.Classicist J. C. McKeown has organized the entries in this entertaining volume around major themes--The Army, Women, Religion and Superstition, Family Life, Medicine, Slaves, Spectacles--allowing for quick browsing or more deliberate consumption.For anyone seeking an inglorious glimpse at the underside of the greatest empire in history, A Cabinet of Roman Curiosities offers endless delights.