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Book Review
Oct. 17th, 2006 08:30 pmThe Last of the Wine
by Mary Renault
Mary Renault writes some of the best historical novels about the ancient world. The Last of the Wine chronicles the fall of Athens, from shortly after the death of Pericles to shortly before the death of Socrates, through the eyes of Alexias, a fictional Athenian citizen. The novel traces not only the development of Alexias' life and character, but also his relationship with his friend and lover Lysis. Renault does a beautiful job of seamlessly intertwining the personal and historical, the mundane world of ordinary Athenians and the deeds of its most famous citizens (Socrates, Alcibiades, Plato, etc.). In this way she breathes life and color into ancient history and culture.
by Mary Renault
Mary Renault writes some of the best historical novels about the ancient world. The Last of the Wine chronicles the fall of Athens, from shortly after the death of Pericles to shortly before the death of Socrates, through the eyes of Alexias, a fictional Athenian citizen. The novel traces not only the development of Alexias' life and character, but also his relationship with his friend and lover Lysis. Renault does a beautiful job of seamlessly intertwining the personal and historical, the mundane world of ordinary Athenians and the deeds of its most famous citizens (Socrates, Alcibiades, Plato, etc.). In this way she breathes life and color into ancient history and culture.
