Description: In ancient Athens father-son conflict was a topic of widespread interest that touched the core of both family and political life, particularly during times of social upheaval. The author explores the tensions experienced by a society that cherished both youthful independence and paternal authority. Thus he encourages us to reflect on the distinction between these concepts and on the difficulties of putting that distinction into practice today.
Review Quotes:
`The theoretical sophistication of this and subsequent publications placed him in the first rank of those who have sought to inform and invigorate political narrative through cultural anthropology, mentalite, and social history. Fathers and Sons in Athens will confirm this standing.' - Classical Review
`Professor Strauss's book has many useful notes and suggestions for further reading, and may be recommended as a relatively jargon-free introduction to the family relationships of the ancient Greeks.' - Greek Gazette