The War That Still Goes On

Main Themes and Topics

The War That Still Goes On by John Barton draws heavily from Thucydides' History of the Peloponnesian War and Plato's interactions with Alcibiades to delve into the complexities of the great war between Athens and Sparta. A significant theme is the intricate political and military dynamics among the Greek city-states, each sharing a common language but constantly shifting alliances. The narrative examines the intersection of military action, political maneuvering, and the human condition during a time of prolonged conflict. Barton's adaptation underscores the timeless nature of these themes, suggesting their relevance to understanding political behavior in any era.

Writing Style and Tone

John Barton adopts a narrative style reminiscent of classical historiography, striving for an analytical yet engaging approach. The tone is scholarly, mirroring Thucydides’ original attempts to objectively recount historical events. Barton's methodical presentation is thorough, presenting both the documented speeches and the imagined dialogues crafted to fill gaps in historical evidence. This technique enhances the reader's understanding of the strategic and philosophical considerations of the time, making the ancient text accessible to modern readers without losing its historical essence.

Awards and Recognition

While specific awards for The War That Still Goes On by John Barton are not mentioned, the book has been noted for its insightful adaptation of classical texts. Critics and scholars commend Barton's ability to meld historical depth with literary creativity, effectively bridging a gap between ancient and modern audiences.

Criticism

Some criticisms of Barton's work focus on the challenges inherent in adapting historical texts for contemporary readers. Critics argue that while the imaginative reconstruction of dialogues offers a vivid reading experience, it may blur the lines between historical fact and fictional embellishment. However, others contend that this approach is in the spirit of Thucydides' own methods, as he often filled in dialogical gaps with informed speculation.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

In The War That Still Goes On, John Barton revisits the legendary conflict between Athens and Sparta, a war that reshaped the ancient Greek world. Drawing from the detailed accounts of Thucydides and the philosophical dialogues of Plato, Barton presents a vivid and comprehensive portrait of this historical period. His book explores how political strategy, personal ambition, and philosophical debates interplayed in a war that involved numerous Greek city-states over nearly three decades. In capturing the essence of these intricate events, Barton provides valuable insights into the timeless nature of political and military power struggles.