A History of Ancient Sparta

Valor, Virtue, and Devotion in the Greek Golden Age

By: Prof. Timothy B. Shutt

Narrated by: Prof. Timothy B. Shutt

Length: 7 hrs and 41 mins

Publisher's summary

A born teacher and lecturer, Professor Timothy B. Shutt examines the history and culture of ancient Sparta, a society renowned for military excellence and adherence to the values of courage, discipline, duty, and the overcoming of fear. Vastly outnumbered at the Battle of Thermopylae, the Spartan "300" held off an overwhelming Persian force before finally succumbing - but not without inflicting massive casualties and inspiring the rest of the Greeks with the notion that they could persevere.

In this enlightening series of lectures, Professor Shutt delves into Spartan culture, examining its origins, government, religion, and the major events that defined its history.

Download the accompanying reference guide.

©2009 Timothy B. Shutt (P)2009 Recorded Books, LLC

Another listening treat from Prof. Shutt

Prof. Shutt is his usual thoroughly charming self here. His voice and delivery are so evocative of the ideal professor, and his enthusiasm shines through any topic.

Here he takes us deeper into Sparta than most ancient history courses go. There is so much written about ancient Athens (of course deservedly so) that it was a treat to hear more about Sparta. I had always had a somewhat negative image of Sparta, and this did a lot to counter that.

Great overview!

An exciting though relaxed approach to Greek history. Shutt comes across as a teacher you could easily discuss Sparta over a beer at your favorite pub.

Excellent

Really enjoyed this audio book. Professor Shutt is excellent and makes learning history enjoyable and interesting

Someone help this man

Great information about Sparta delivered by professor who is actively fighting being drowned. At one point I accidently paused it and just assumed he had died. Did you know the North American Elm tree is almost extinct? I certainly do. Those trees are not A-leet (elite).

Can't get enough

Masterfully told, a true pleasure to listen to. I found myself listening to these lectures over and over again.

excellent lecture

i love hearing professor Shutt! His ability to bring past civilizations to life is astounding, and how he rarely speculates but when he does he tells you he is. An excellent read all around.

Good information, disgusting delivery

The information delivered is very good. It is broken into good, concise topics which can easily be listened to in short runs or back to back depending on how much time you have. However, it is very distracting to hear the professor struggling to make it through the lectures. I couldn't tell if he was eating while recording or had too much to drink. At times I had to stop because the sound of some old guy slobbering on his words and burping and sucking on his lips, being pumped directly into my ear, were too much. Also, the strange pauses are distracting. Like I say, the information is good, just be prepared to have audio slobber in your ears to get the info.

interesting and enjoyable

i really enjoyed this audiobook. Unlike another reviewer, I liked the old professor's delivery style and found it charming in an old professorish sort of way. I have always wanted to know more about Sparta and this book certainly did that for me - and it was so interesting!

Entertaining and informative

I learned much while listening to this book. Easy to follow and well enjoyed.

Can I get more?

This was a great listen, extremely education and in depth. My only question is where can I find more of other titles just like these.?.