Ancient Greece. By Stanley Casson. (Oxford University Press. 2s. 6d.
net.)—This brilliant little essay on the history, life and thought of the old Greeks is precisely what many people need as an introduction to Greek studies. The brief notes on the topography of Greece have the personal touch that comes( from travel, and the references to recent theories—such as the contention that the Greeks were enfeebled by the spread of malaria —are judicious. Mr. Casson lays great stress on the fact- that the Greek ideals were in the main our own. " The Greek strove, as we strive, to think clearly, to act. justly and to live freely." His poets, historians and philosophers have a message for us as well as for him. " It is• remarkable," says Mr. Casson, " that in all Greek history we hear little either of hypocrisy, shoddiness or snobbery, the besetting petty sins of modern life." The condemnation of Socrates was an exception to the rile of toler- ance that distinguished Athens. Mr. Casson's essay should be widely read. It has a few well-chosen illustrations. chiefly representing Greek scenery.
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