Written by: Steven Pressfield
Submitted By: Dominic Mulholland
I recently watched a TV programme that told me that the battle between the Spartans and the Persians at Thermopylae was a turning point in world history. Had the Persians won, democracy may never have established itself as a political way forward. Having read Pressfields Gates of Fire I have to say that the TV gave a somewhat dry appraisal of the most incredible story. This is a tale of heroism, tradition, Hellenic warriors and a fabulous history. There is no doubt that the Spartans had something of a strange society, but learning about it through the eyes of Xeones, who is retelling the tale to Xerxes the King of Persia after the battle is over, was an idea for which Mr. Pressfield is to be congratulated. I can't recommend this novel highly enough. Action, adventure, politics and pride; it's all in here.
