Greek Warfare by Sabine Lorca

"Greek Warfare" explores the military history of ancient Greece, revealing how city-states like Athens and Sparta shaped Western military traditions. The book examines the evolution of Greek armies and navies, highlighting the hoplite phalanx's dominance and innovations in siege warfare. The book also analyzes how Greek military institutions developed, transitioning from citizen-soldier armies to professional mercenary forces.

The book emphasizes that Greek military success stemmed from adaptability, tactical innovation, and understanding the operational environment, not just superior technology. For example, the development and strategic use of triremes significantly impacted naval warfare.

The book synthesizes textual accounts from historians like Herodotus and archaeological findings, offering a balanced view of ancient Greek combat. Spanning from the Archaic to Hellenistic periods, the book progresses by first introducing fundamental concepts of Greek warfare, then exploring weaponry and training methods, and finally dedicating attention to naval power and logistical challenges. This approach provides military history enthusiasts and students of ancient history with a comprehensive understanding of a pivotal era.