Helmet and Spear: Stories from the Wars of the Greeks and Romans

A historical account written in the early 20th century. This work recounts the significant battles and conflicts involving the Greeks and Romans, emphasizing stories from ancient military history, particularly focusing on well-known battles such as Marathon and Thermopylae. It aims to illustrate broader themes about the consequences of war and valor. The opening of the book introduces the historical context surrounding the conflicts between the Greeks and Persians. It begins with a discussion of the motivations behind these wars, citing Herodotus and how misdeeds and provocations escalated into long-standing feuds. The text dives into the specifics of the Battle of Marathon, outlining the Persian invasion and the Athenian response, led by the tactical decisions of General Miltiades. As the events unfold, the narrative reveals the intense preparations for battle, the strategic considerations by both Athenian and Persian commanders, and the eventual triumph of the vastly outnumbered Athenians, emphasizing the heroism and significance of this pivotal moment in Greek history.