Athens: Its Rise and Fall, Complete

"Athens: Its Rise and Fall, Complete" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The book explores the trajectory of Athenian civilization, focusing on its political, literary, and cultural development. Lytton aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Athens, its governance, social structure, and the profound influences it has had on art, philosophy, and democracy throughout history. The opening of the work sets the stage for a detailed investigation into Athens' history, beginning with a discussion on the geographical context of Attica and its early inhabitants, the Pelasgians. Lytton reflects on the complexity of Athenian origins, emphasizing the role of critical figures like Cecrops in the city's development. He also prepares the reader for a thorough exploration of Eleusinian mythology, the early religion of the Greeks, and the transitions from a savage society to one defined by law and agriculture. The introduction serves as a prelude to the rich narratives and analyses that will unfold, offering insights into the interplay of politics, culture, and religion in shaping Athenian identity. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Edward George Earle Lytton Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Baron Lytton,, was an English writer and politician. He served as a Whig member of Parliament from 1831 to 1841 and a Conservative from 1851 to 1866. He was Secretary of State for the Colonies from June 1858 to June 1859, choosing Richard Clement Moody as founder of British Columbia. He was created Baron Lytton of Knebworth in 1866.