The untold story of before and after "300 - The Movie"

Most of us will be familiar with the Hollywood blockbuster "300". We probably remember for its superb graphics and a very inspiring story, but since then I had been really wanting to know more about the culture of Spartans and Greeks in general. Beyond 300, the movie, the Greek history and culture has always been placed at a very high pedestal by the historians for being the forefathers of democracy and adding to the world knowledge with their numerous and valuable contributions in all fields of life - sociology, politics, philosophy, art, science, theatrics and many more.

This book, gives you a historical perspective on all of these in the context of the turbulent and violent times of 300-400 BC. The book chronicles the life of prominent Greek philosophers, kings, tyrants, generals and slaves of that time and manages to weave an almost unbelievable yet magical story. At no point the book turns into a boring historical account, so wonderful is the narration style. Full marks to Michael Scott for that.

The book starts with a reference to "300" the movie follows it the historical account of that famous battle of Thermopylae and lures the reader into the mystical world of the Greeks. From then on wards, starts the anecdotal account of the Greek history and how it not only shaped the Greek world but the world as we know it today. Thoroughly researched, the narration time and again tries to relate back to the current world geography, issues and political philosophy which only goes to remind you that how much knowing your past can help you understand and appreciate the present in a much better way.

I'd say this is a must read book for anyone interested in world history and particularly politics. Believe me that period in history is nothing less that a Bollywood blockbuster with love, tragedy, sex, romance, betrayals and hell yeah..loads of action!!

Before I sign-off, many thanks to Michael Scott for bringing this wonderful piece of history to us.