Athens: Its Rise and Fall, Book III

"Athens: Its Rise and Fall, Book III" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical work exploring the period of ancient Athens between the Battle of Marathon and later Persian conflicts. It starts by introducing Miltiades, a celebrated leader known for his victory at Marathon, whose later failed naval expedition leads to accusations of treason and his death, showcasing the fickle nature of Athenian popularity and power. The book highlights how key leaders' personalities impacted the development of Athens, setting the stage for the development of Athenian drama, while also illustrating the developing rivalry between Themistocles and Aristides, two leading figures embroiled in the dynamic workings of Athenian political life.