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The Anabasis of Cyrus, by Xenophon, translated and annotated by Wayne Ambler
Ithaca, N.Y.: Cornell University Press, 2008. Pp. xv, 281. Maps, append., notes, index. $49.95 paper. ISBN:0801489997.
This new translation of The Anabasis, is intended to provide a modern, colloquial English version of the Xenophon's epic tale for both the lay reader, not necessarily familiar with ancient history, and the serious scholar.
It opens with a lengthy "Translator's Preface" and a thoughtful introduction by Eric Buzzetti, both of which provide valuable background, including an analysis of Xenophon's stylistic approach to events.
The text that follows is in clear modern English, following the "spirit" of the original, rather than the letter (the latter being sometimes confusing due to differences of language and culture over 2,400 years). Footnotes are used extensively to provide cross references, clarify particular word selections, and fill in historical background.
An excellent book for anyone interested in Ancient Greek warfare, or just a rattling good tale.
Reviewer: A. A. Nofi
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