The Greatest Greek "Greece, Nonfiction" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Greece

The "Greece" category of books encompasses literature that is set in or inspired by the country of Greece. This can include historical fiction, mythology, travel writing, and contemporary novels that explore Greek culture, history, and society. These books often feature themes of ancient mythology, philosophy, and the country's rich history, as well as its modern-day struggles and triumphs. The Greece category offers readers a diverse range of stories that capture the essence of this beautiful and complex country.

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  1. 1. The Histories of Herodotus by Herodotus

    "The Histories of Herodotus" is an ancient text that provides a comprehensive account of the Greco-Persian Wars. It is often considered the first work of history in Western literature. The author, often referred to as the 'Father of History', provides a narrative that not only discusses the conflicts between the Greeks and Persians, but also delves into the customs, geography, and history of each civilization. This detailed and pioneering work has greatly contributed to our understanding of the ancient world.

    The 312th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Complete Works of Plato by Plato

    This comprehensive collection compiles the philosophical works of an influential Classical Greek philosopher. The book includes his dialogues, letters, and philosophical musings, exploring topics such as justice, beauty, truth, mathematics, politics, love, and virtue. The philosopher's ideas, including the theory of forms, the allegory of the cave, and the philosopher king, have had a profound impact on Western thought and continue to be studied and debated in modern philosophical and academic circles.

    The 357th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle

    This philosophical work focuses on the concept of ethics, specifically virtue ethics, and how it relates to a person's character and happiness. The author argues that happiness is the highest good and the end goal of life, and that it is achieved not through pleasure, but through virtuous actions. The book also explores the nature of practical reasoning, the different kinds of virtues, the importance of friendship, and the role of luck in human welfare.

    The 497th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The History of the Peloponnesian War by Thucydides

    This book is a historical account of the Peloponnesian War between the city-states of Athens and Sparta in ancient Greece. The author, an Athenian general, provides a detailed narrative of the war, its causes, and its consequences, offering valuable insights into the political and social dynamics of the time. The work is considered a pioneering piece in the field of history due to its rigorous methodology and critical analysis of events.

    The 679th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Parallel Lives by Plutarch

    "Parallel Lives" is a collection of biographies of famous Greek and Roman figures, written in pairs to draw comparisons between their lives. The work explores the influence of character on the lives and destinies of these historical figures. The biographies are not only a record of the lives of these individuals, but also provide insight into the times in which they lived, offering a unique perspective on the history and culture of the ancient world.

    The 632nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Symposium by Plato

    In "Symposium", a group of notable men including philosophers, playwrights, and politicians gather at a banquet and decide to each give a speech in praise of the god of love. Each speech presents a different perspective on love, ranging from the purely physical to the spiritual. The dialogue culminates with the speech of Socrates, who presents a philosophical view of love as a means of ascending to contemplation of the divine.

    The 848th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Apology by Plato

    This philosophical text is a dialogue of Socrates' defense in 399 BC against the charges of 'corrupting the young, and by not believing in the gods in whom the city believes, but in other daimonia that are novel.' The dialogue is Socrates' defense at his trial and is his final public statement before his execution. In it, he discusses the moral and philosophical justification for his actions and beliefs, ultimately leading to his conviction and death.

    The 953rd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Phaedo by Plato

    "Phaedo" is a philosophical dialogue that takes place in ancient Greece, where the main character, a philosopher, is awaiting his execution. The story is a discussion on the nature of the afterlife, the immortality of the soul, and the theory of forms. The philosopher argues that the soul is immortal and that we should not fear death. He also discusses his theory of forms, stating that the world we perceive is merely a shadow of the true world of forms. The dialogue ends with the philosopher calmly accepting his fate, illustrating his belief in the immortality of the soul.

    The 990th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Poetics by Aristotle

    This book is a seminal work of literary criticism that has profoundly influenced western thought. The book discusses the nature of poetry, tragedy, and comedy, as well as the components that make up a good story such as plot, character, thought, diction, melody, and spectacle. The author also introduces the concept of catharsis, the purging of emotions through the experience of art, and discusses the role of the tragic hero. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in literature, drama, or philosophy.

    The 1366th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Crito by Plato

    "Crito" is a philosophical dialogue where the main character, a renowned philosopher, is in prison awaiting execution and is visited by his friend, Crito, who urges him to escape. The philosopher argues that since the laws of Athens have given him life, education, and many other benefits, it would be unjust for him to break those laws by escaping. The dialogue explores themes of justice, law, obligation, and the social contract.

    The 1542nd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Discourses Of Epictetus by Epictetus

    "Discourses of Epictetus" is a philosophical work that compiles the teachings of the Stoic philosopher Epictetus, as recorded by his pupil Arrian. The text is a practical guide for applying philosophy to daily life, emphasizing ethics, personal freedom, and mental strength. It explores how to live virtuously in accordance with nature, control one's emotions, and maintain tranquility by focusing only on what is within one's control. The discourses delve into discussions about the nature of human beings, the purpose of life, and the path to happiness, offering insights that aim to equip individuals with the resilience and wisdom necessary to lead fulfilling lives.

    The 1958th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Euthyphro by Plato

    "Euthyphro" is a philosophical dialogue that takes place in the weeks leading up to the trial of Socrates, where Socrates and Euthyphro engage in a conversation about the nature of piety. The dialogue begins with Socrates questioning Euthyphro about his decision to prosecute his own father for the murder of a slave. This leads to a discussion about what is considered holy and the nature of the gods. Despite their lengthy conversation, the two philosophers never arrive at a definitive answer, leaving the question of what constitutes true piety unresolved.

    The 1958th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Hippocratic Corpus by Hippocrates

    The "Hippocratic Corpus" is a collection of around 70 early medical works from ancient Greece, written in Ionic Greek. The texts are of varying content and length, covering a wide range of medical topics, including clinical descriptions of disease, surgical procedures, medical ethics, and philosophical reflections. Although traditionally attributed to Hippocrates, modern scholars believe that many of the works were not written by him and instead represent the work of several different authors over several decades. Despite this, the collection remains an invaluable resource for understanding the beginnings of Western medicine.

    The 2107th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Enneads by Plotinus

    "Enneads" is a collection of 54 philosophical treatises by Plotinus, a prominent philosopher of the ancient world. The work is a cornerstone of Neoplatonism, a school of Hellenistic philosophy that sought to reconcile Greek philosophy with religious mysticism. The book covers a wide range of topics, including the nature of reality, the self, the universe, and the divine. The author argues for the existence of a transcendent One from which all existence emanates, and that the goal of human life is to strive for unity with this divine principle.

    The 2151st Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Phaedrus by Plato

    Phaedrus is a Socratic dialogue that discusses topics such as love, the nature of the soul, and the art of rhetoric. The narrative begins with a myth about the chariot of the soul, then moves on to a discussion about the nature of love, particularly focusing on the concept of divine madness. The dialogue then transitions into a discussion about rhetoric and writing, debating the merits and pitfalls of both. The dialogue concludes with a critique of the art of rhetoric, arguing that true rhetoric must be based on truth and knowledge rather than manipulation and deceit.

    The 2760th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Euclid's Elements by Euclid

    This book is a comprehensive collection of definitions, postulates, propositions, and mathematical proofs written by an ancient Greek mathematician. It is considered one of the most influential works in the history of mathematics, serving as the main textbook for teaching mathematics, especially geometry, from the time of its publication until the late 19th or early 20th century. The book covers topics such as plane geometry, proportion in general, the properties of numbers, incommensurable magnitudes, and solid geometry.

    The 5086th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Gardens Of Adonis by Marcel Detienne

    "Gardens of Adonis" delves into the intricate world of ancient Greek mythology and rituals, focusing on the figure of Adonis. The book explores the symbolic and practical roles of spices and herbs in Greek culture, particularly in relation to the Adonis cult. Through an analysis of the ephemeral gardens dedicated to Adonis, the work examines themes of fertility, death, and rebirth, revealing how these gardens, despite their fleeting nature, held profound meanings for ancient Greek society. The study highlights the interplay between myth and ritual, offering insights into the agricultural and religious practices of the time.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. The Works of Archimedes by Archimedes

    This book is a compilation of the surviving works of one of the greatest mathematicians and inventors of all time. It includes his theories and discoveries in fields such as geometry, calculus, physics, and engineering. Readers will find his famous treatises on the lever, the sphere and the cylinder, floating bodies, and the measurement of a circle, among others. The book also contains his explanations of the principles of mechanics, the concept of equilibrium, and the center of gravity of plane figures.

    The 6513th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Histories by Polybius

    "The Histories" is a comprehensive account of the rise of the Roman Empire, focusing on the period from 264-146 BC. The author, a Greek statesman, provides a detailed analysis of the political, military, and social structures of Rome, attributing its success to a balanced constitution and superior military organization. The work also includes first-hand accounts of several significant events, such as the Third Punic War and the Numantine War.

    The 6513th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. The Politics by Aristotle

    "The Politics" is a foundational text in political philosophy, where the author explores various forms of government and their respective merits and drawbacks. The work delves into the nature of the state, citizenship, and the role of the middle class in achieving political stability. It emphasizes the importance of a constitution that balances the interests of different parts of society and discusses the conditions under which various types of governments can be successful. The author also examines the relationship between politics and ethics, asserting that the main purpose of the state is to promote a good and virtuous life among its citizens.

    The 6745th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Selected Speeches by Demosthenes, Robin Waterfield

    "Selected Speeches" is a compilation of orations by one of ancient Greece's most renowned orators, Demosthenes. The collection, translated and edited by Robin Waterfield, showcases Demosthenes' eloquence and his passionate involvement in the political life of Athens. Through these speeches, readers gain insight into the complex social and political issues of the time, including the struggle against Macedonian influence under Philip II. The speeches not only highlight Demosthenes' rhetorical prowess but also reflect the dynamics of power and resistance in classical Athens, offering a window into the art of persuasion and the civic identity of the Athenians.

    The 6745th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. A Short Border Handbook by Gazmend Kapllani

    "A Short Border Handbook" is a poignant and thought-provoking memoir that follows the journey of a young Albanian man who leaves his homeland to seek a better life in Greece. Through a series of vivid and often humorous anecdotes, the author explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of borders, both physical and metaphorical. With a mix of personal experiences and historical context, this book offers a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of immigration, ultimately revealing the universal human desire for freedom and acceptance.

    The 6847th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. On The Sublime by Longinus

    The treatise in question is a seminal work of literary criticism from antiquity that explores the concept of the sublime, a quality of greatness or grandeur that can elevate written works to the highest levels of distinction. The author examines the sources of sublimity, attributing it to a combination of the natural abilities of the writer and their emotional investment, while also considering the effects of rhetorical devices, figures of speech, and noble diction. The work further discusses the importance of avoiding pitfalls that can detract from the sublime and includes analysis of various texts to illustrate its points. The author's insights aim to guide writers and critics in creating and recognizing profound and moving literature that can stand the test of time.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Poems by Archilochos

    The book is a collection of lyrical poetry from an ancient Greek poet renowned for his versatile and innovative use of poetic meters. The poems reflect the poet's personal experiences, emotions, and observations, often with a sharp wit and a frank, sometimes acerbic, tone. His work covers a range of themes, from war and politics to love and loss, offering a glimpse into the life and times of the early Greek lyrical tradition. The poet's influence is notable for his pioneering role in the development of the personal voice in poetry, breaking away from the Homeric tradition of epic storytelling to explore individual human experiences.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Poems by Alkman

    The book is a collection of ancient Greek lyric poetry attributed to a celebrated poet of the Archaic period. It encompasses a range of choral compositions that were originally intended for musical accompaniment, reflecting the cultural and social milieu of Sparta during the 7th century BCE. The verses are characterized by their vivid imagery, rhythmic innovation, and the use of a local dialect, which together convey themes of nature, mythology, and everyday life. Although only fragments of the original works survive, they offer a glimpse into the ceremonial performances and the poetic artistry of the time, showcasing the poet's skill in blending personal expression with communal celebration.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

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