This handsomely illustrated book offers a broad synthesis of Archaic Greek culture. Unlike other books dealing with the art and architecture of the Archaic period, it places these subjects in their historical, social, literary, and intellectual contexts. Origins and originality constitute a central theme, for during this period representational and narrative art, monumental sculpture and architecture, epic, lyric, and dramatic poetry, the city-state (polis), tyranny and early democracy, and natural philosophy were all born.

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This book is a tour de force, written in an arresting, sometimes dazzling style, with a fine sense of humour. The author's enthusiasm shows, throughout, in an uncommonly engaging way. Clarity and ease of writing all but mask the serious nature of the investigation and its labours.