Men of Athens facts for kids
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| Author | Olivia Coolidge |
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| Illustrator | Milton Johnson |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Historical fiction |
| Publisher | Houghton Mifflin |
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Publication date
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1962 |
| Media type | |
| Pages | 244 |
| ISBN | 0395067278 |
Men of Athens is an exciting historical fiction book written by Olivia Coolidge in 1962. It's a collection of short stories that take you back in time to ancient Greece. The book focuses on the famous men who lived during a special period known as the Golden Age of Athens. It's a great way to learn about history through engaging tales.
This book was recognized for its excellence. It received a Newbery Honor Award in 1963, which is a big deal in children's literature. It also won the Horn Book Fanfare award, showing it was a favorite among readers and critics.
Contents
Journey to Ancient Athens
Men of Athens lets you explore the daily lives and big events of one of history's most important cities. The stories are about real people and events, but told in a way that feels like a thrilling adventure. You'll meet leaders, thinkers, and ordinary citizens who shaped the world.
What Was the Golden Age of Athens?
The Golden Age of Athens was a period of incredible growth and achievement. It happened around 480 BC to 404 BC. During this time, Athens became very powerful and rich. It was a leader among the Greek city-states.
This era saw amazing developments in many areas. Art, architecture, philosophy, and democracy all flourished. Think of it as a time when Athens was like a superstar city! Many ideas that we still use today, especially about government and thinking, came from this period.
Who Were the Famous Athenians?
The book introduces you to many important figures from this time. These weren't just kings or generals. They were also artists, writers, and wise men.
For example, you might read about Pericles. He was a very influential statesman and general. He led Athens during its peak. He helped build many famous structures, like the Parthenon.
You might also learn about great thinkers like Socrates. He was a philosopher who taught people to question everything. His ideas changed how people thought about knowledge and truth.
The stories also feature playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides. They wrote amazing plays that are still performed today. These plays often explored big ideas about life and human nature.
Why These Stories Still Matter
Even though these stories are about people who lived thousands of years ago, they are still important. They show us how people faced challenges and made big decisions. They also teach us about the beginnings of democracy. This is a system where citizens have a say in their government.
Reading Men of Athens helps you understand the roots of Western civilization. It shows how ancient ideas still influence our world today. It's a fun way to connect with history and see how the past shaped the present.
