The Strategy of Paracles and the Spartans

Athens' strategy rested on their magnificent navy which enabled them to rule over a sea empire. Paracles also believed that the Peloponnesian fleet currently could not threaten the Athenian fleet Nor would they easily be able to acquire skill necessary to challenge Athens at sea. In paracles' defensive strategy The Athenians therefore were to reject battle on land Abandoned their homes in the attic countryside and retreat behind their walls. This was designed to emphasize Athens' lack of provocative aggression by merely responding in kind to Sparta's actions. And it appears that he did not anticipate that the Spartans would hold out for very long Surely no more than three campaigning seasons. Both sides miscalculated badly both