In which the Pall of war descends heavily upon Athens, bringing with it a pestilence so grievous and strange that it overwhelms both body and spirit, while the Athenians endure invasions, sieges, and the ravages of the Plague, their city reeling under calamity yet governed by the steadfastness of Pericles. The events unfold with assaults on Peloponnesian territories, diplomatic intrigues in Thrace, and the tragic fall of Potidæa, revealing the strains of empire and the resolve demanded by civic duty amidst travail.

In which the conflict between Athens and Sparta erupts fully with a violent surprise assault on Plataea, followed by the mobilisation of forces and cautious stratagems as the Peloponnesians invade Attica, compelling the Athenians to gather within their walls and commit to naval strength. Amidst these grim preparations, Pericles delivers a solemn funeral oration that extols Athenian democracy, valor, and the enduring resolve of those who sacrifice for their city’s freedom.

In which the allied states, moved by grievances and necessity, convene at Lacedaemon to debate the onset of war with Athens, while the rival cities engage in fierce oratory and diplomatic exchanges seeking to justify their cause. The histories of notable men such as Pausanias and Themistocles are recounted, illustrating the fraught relations and ambitions that underlie the tensions preceding the conflict.

In which the remains of Athenian resilience and naval ambition emerge following the Persian Wars, as walls rise swiftly and dominion extends through strategic sieges, alliances, and campaigns against both Persian and Hellenic adversaries. These developments unfold amid shifting loyalties, stern impositions on allies, and intermittent strife, painting a complex portrait of growing Athenian power and the uneasy peace sustained by fragile truces and contested spheres of influence.

In which the Peloponnesian congress at Lacedaemon assembles amid rising accusations between Athens and its adversaries, exposing the profound discord and competing character traits that shape their rivalry. Amidst passionate speeches advocating war and prudent counsel urging delay and preparation, the Lacedaemonians ultimately deem Athens the aggressor, setting the stage for a conflict born of both fear and honour.

In which the origins of conflict between Corinth and Corcyra are examined through disputes over colonial allegiance and burgeoning naval power, culminating in fierce maritime engagements that test ancient alliances and treaties. The unfolding strife extends to include Potidæa and surrounding states, as Athenian and Peloponnesian interests increasingly collide, laying groundwork for broader hostilities.

In which the history of Greece from ancient times until the outbreak of the Peloponnesian War is examined, revealing a land fragmented by migrations, piracy, and continual local strife, where no great national unity or durable power had hitherto established itself. It is shown how coastal cities grew through commerce and naval strength, how tyrannies rose and fell, and how the rising conflict between Athens and Lacedaemon set the stage for a war of unprecedented scale and consequence for Hellas.