Preface

The basis of this book was laid in an unpublished doctoral thesis ‘Early Sparta c. 950-650 BC: an Archaeological and Historical Study’ (Oxford 1975). To my former supervisor, Professor J. Boardman, and my examiners, Professors C. M.Robertson and W. G.Forrest, I am principally indebted for its conception and fruition. It could not, however, have been completed without the unstinting assistance of many archaeologists, historians and geog-raphers, the staffs of museums and libraries in Greece, Ireland and England, and grants from research funds in the Universities of Dublin and Oxford. The following scholars and friends are owed especial thanks: R. Beckinsale,

D. Bell, J. N.Coldstream, K. Demakopoulou-Papantoniou, the late V. Desborough, L. Marangou, G. E.M. de Ste. Croix, G. Steinhauer (Acting Ephor of Lakonia), E. Touloupa, P. M.Warren, J. G.Younger.

The present book represents a considerable expansion, conceptual as well as geographical and chronological, of the thesis. It is not primarily a political history, but an attempt, inevitably provisional, to map out a new kind of history of ancient Sparta—one which does justice as well to the area unified and exploited by the Spartans as to the inhabitants of the central place. The inspiration to write it was provided by the invitation of Professor R. F.Willetts to contribute to the series of which he is general editor. I wish to thank him and Mr N. Franklin for their constant encouragement and helpful criticism. Drafts of various chapters have also been read and greatly improved by

O. T.P. K.Dickinson, W. W.Phelps, J. B.Salmon and G. E.M. de Ste. Croix. None of these of course should be regarded as incriminated by the results, for which I alone bear full responsibility.

I am also most grateful to the following for permission to reproduce, sometimes in modified form, published maps and illustrations: the Managing Committee of the British School at Athens; the Swedish Institute in Athens; J. Bintliff, J. N.Coldstream, R. Hope Simpson and W. A.McDonald (Director of the Minnesota Messenia Expedition).

Trinity College, Dublin June 1978, P. A.C.