Hubris

The Parthenon is one of the most recognizable ancient buildings in Athens. It has adorned postcards, pictures, and art, and is one of the main attractions for tourists visiting Athens. But the story of how it came to be and how it came to define Athens is the story of this new book by David Stuttard.

This is more than just a straightforward biography of a building and how it changed a community over time. As it was built thousands of years ago, the information about how it came to be has become more myth and legend than fact; though often, there are facts in the myths of the past. This book weaves a story of how Athens rose in power, how it viewed the mountain, the Parthenon, and used it in its sacred activities, and eventually how the community decided to raise a massive work on top of the mountain, in a way, in a fit of hubris and pride..

This work is easily accessible for the average reader, the writing and story will keep readers engaged.