The Battle of Marathon by Elizabeth Barrett Browning is a riveting account of one of the most famous battles in ancient history. Browning's vivid descriptions and attention to detail bring this epic conflict to life, immersing the reader in the heat of battle and the bravery of the soldiers fighting for their lives.

The author does a fantastic job of showcasing the strategic genius of the Athenian general Miltiades and the sheer determination of the Greek forces in the face of overwhelming odds. Through Browning's words, readers can feel the adrenaline and fear that must have consumed the warriors as they clashed swords with the mighty Persian army.

One of the most impressive aspects of Browning's writing is her ability to humanize the characters involved in the battle. She portrays them not just as soldiers, but as sons, brothers, and fathers, lending a poignant depth to their sacrifices on the battlefield.

Overall, The Battle of Marathon is a gripping and beautifully rendered retelling of a pivotal moment in history. Browning's lyrical prose and expert storytelling make this a must-read for anyone interested in ancient warfare or the courage of the human spirit.

Book Description:
The Battle of Marathon is a rhymed, dramatic, narrative-poem by Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Written in 1820, it retells powerfully The Battle of Marathon: during which the Athenian state defeated the much larger invading force during the first Persian invasion of Greece.

When Darius the Great orders his immense army march west to annex additional territories; no-one in the Persian court predicted that some fractious, independent Greek city-states stood any chance against the Persian super-power. And yet at Marathon in 490BC, Darius' plans received a decisive check in the brilliant Athenian offensive overseen by the aged but hardy Miltiades: who over-ran the Persian army just landed upon their coasts, cutting their opponents down to the last man.

But some of the Greeks' enemies are more than mortal: Aphrodite herself swears vengeance upon them for the actions of their forebears in destroying her beloved Troy generations ago.

- Can Miltiades continue successfully guiding his fellow Athenians to future greatness; when rival factions lead by Themistocles and Aristides grow only stronger day by day?

- Can even Jove himself protect the Athenians he loves from the whimsical - but fatal - wiles of his daughter, the goddess of love?