Review

General Books

Ulrich Sinn, a well-known archaeologist from the University of W_rzburg, has written an excellent introduction to both the site of ancient Olympia as well as to the games for which the site is famous. He describes the Olympic games both chronologically and topically, explaining the physical remains, the historical background, the cultural milieu and the surviving legacy. This book lies halfway between Judith Swaddling's brief and elementary The Ancient Olympic Games and Waldo Sweet's annotated collection of ancient sources about the Olympic games entitled Sport and Recreation in Ancient Greece. The eighteen brief chapters are organized chronologically, beginning with "The Battles for Olympia' and concluding with "An Honorable End." Each chapter is a unit in itself, with titles such as "The Origins," "Temple and Altar," and "The Olympic Village." This chronological framework is interwoven with vivid descriptions of the physical setting; the author's numerous archaeological excavations at Olympia have provided a rich background of colorful examples and illuminating details. Indeed, the organization of the work facilitates comprehension. While the reader is drawn along a chronologically organized path, there are productive side journeys into archaeology, customs and culture.	1
This book is an excellent choice for teachers in secondary schools or for those teaching Western Civilization. The author begins with a very basic foundation and builds the reader's understanding of ancient Olympia course by course. Sinn clearly explains the interdependence of the religious cult of Olympian Zeus, the sacredness of athletic contests, and the commercial and cultural interchanges that formed integral parts of these quadrennial festivals. There is more than enough detail for a unit or a lecture on ancient Olympia. The material is clearly presented and attractively illustrated.	2
California State University, Long Beach   David Hood

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