Humorous and shocking, Miracula is filled with astonishing facts and stories drawn from ancient Greece and Rome that have rarely been retold in English. It not only explores 'the incredible' as presented by little-known classical writers like Callimachus and Phlegon of Tralles, but considers more familiar authors such as Herodotus and Cicero, who often couldn't resist relating sensational, tabloid-worthy tales. Paul Chrystal tackles ancient examples of topics still relevant today, such as racism, slavery and misogyny. The pieces are by turns absorbing, enchanting, curious, unbelievable, comical, astonishing, disturbing and occasionally just plain daft.
An entertaining and sometimes lurid collection, this book is perfect for all those fascinated by the stranger aspects of the ancient world, history enthusiasts and anyone interested in classical history, society and culture.
Size: 145 x 224mm (hardback with dust jacket)
Pages: 472 (43 illustrations)
Publisher: Reaktion Books
