The Lion: A Novel of Ancient Athens
Set in the 5th century BC, the Golden Age of Athens, The Lion tracks the early life and exploits of Pericles during the Greco-Persian wars. His main rival, Cimon, competes with him both for glory and the attention of Thetis, a beautiful and noble Theban captive. The fleet, including combined forces of Athens and Sparta, is tasked with driving the Persians from the Aegean. Pericles strives to earn the respect of the older Marathon veteran warrior Attikos, sent by Pericles’ father to watch over the young leader.
The broader political significance of the war is well framed by scenes of the young king Pleistarchus and his military regent, Pausanias. The characters display good dimensionality, and descriptions of the complex military and social hierarchy of ancient Aegean culture are welcome, if a bit explanatory even by the standards of historical fiction. Specification of the various warrior classes, such as the helots, hoplites, and rowers, plus various military and political titles, do more than add color.
The narrative is overall well-paced, with the exception of some digression focusing on the role of drama in Greek society. More diehard historical fiction fans will not object to this, but those looking for pure military action may find it distracting. The battles are descriptive in their brutality and told from multiple perspectives. The historicity exhibits meticulous research, and the book offers both a ripping yarn and a true learning experience. Recommended reading.
