Julian Richards, a freelance archaeologist and the author of the current Stonehenge guidebook, delves into the enigmatic world of the Spartans. He shares insights on the legendary battle at Thermopylae, where 300 Spartans fought valiantly against the Persian army. The discussion uncovers Sparta's brutal societal practices, including the culling of weak infants and the rigorous training of children. Richards raises thought-provoking questions about whether Sparta was truly a utopia or a society that transformed its people into fighting machines.
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Stonehenge Funeral
A Neolithic family journeys to Stonehenge, a massive henge under construction.
It serves as their husband's and father's final resting place, highlighting its role as a prehistoric cemetery.
insights INSIGHT
Stonehenge's Mystery
Stonehenge, older than the pyramids, was built and rebuilt over 1500 years.
Its purpose remains a mystery, with theories ranging from celestial clock to healing center.
insights INSIGHT
Unique Construction
Stonehenge is unique for its shaped stones, a new technology for the time.
This monumental construction could be a 'last gasp' of a society aware of new technologies like metal.
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Stonehenge, a Temple Restor'd to the British Druids
William Stukeley
This book is a detailed exploration of the ancient monument Stonehenge, written by William Stukeley in 1740. Stukeley, a rector and physician, dedicates the book to the Duke of Ancaster and Kesteven, highlighting the religious significance of the site. He delves into the history of the Druids, their religious practices, and the construction of Stonehenge. The book includes meticulous measurements, drawings, and plans of the site, as well as analyses of the architectural features and the cultural context surrounding the monument. Stukeley argues that Stonehenge reflects a deep continuity of religious practice from ancient times, positioning the Druids within a historical lineage that traces back to patriarchal religions. The book also explores the geometric layout of Stonehenge, the significance of the circular and oval shapes, and the purpose of the inner circle and the altar stone, suggesting their use in religious ceremonies and sacrifices.
In 480BC, the Spartans secured their place in history when 300 of their soldiers fought to the death against the mighty Persian army at Thermopylae. Their reputation for brutal decisiveness and simple living have been admired for thousands of years. But what about the darker side of Spartan ideology, a society that culled weak babies, forced children to fight, and enslaved its neighbours? Was Sparta really a utopia? Or was Aristotle right when he said that Spartans simply made men into machines?
This is a Short History of the Spartans.
Written by Jo Furniss. With thanks to Dr Andrew Bayliss, Associate Professor of Greek History at the University of Birmingham, UK, and author of The Spartans: A Very Short Introduction.
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Short History Of... 