I usually read books like these not so much for the discussions and considerations of battles and warfare that they (almost entirely) focus on, but for the little snippets of every day life that are tossed in as asides.

Xenophon’s book was no different in its passionate concentration on horse brigades, or triremes, or the constant give and take of shifting alliances, sieges, battles and peace treaties around which the ancient world seems to have revolved, all very “soap opera” and such.

There were some interesting tales he chose to tell, including one about a wife of a slain leader who became a powerful leader of a city state (fascinating, especially in an era such as hers). The recounting of various speeches and tactics therein, used at the assemblies in Athens, were also very interesting reads.

If you’re into warfare, or war strategy, you’ll love Xenophon, because he loves those things too; you’d probably find this book absorbing. If you don’t like the battle chat, but have historical or cultural interest in the ancient world, you’ll find this book a good one to skim.

Suggested with reservations.