23. Twilight of the Polis

Introduction to Ancient Greek History (CLCV 205)

In this lecture, Professor Kagan describes the growth of a new power: Thebes. Under the leadership of Epaminondas and Pelopidas, Thebes grows into a major power among the Greek cities. In fact, the Thebans even rout the Spartans in a standard hoplite battle in the battle of Leuctra. Finally, Professor Kagan points out that by the time of Theban hegemony, the Greek world had experienced so many wars and conflicts that it opened the door to a powerful leader: Philip of Macedon.

00:00 - Chapter 1. The Rise of Theban Hegemony
14:42 - Chapter 2. The 375 Peace Proposal
21:29 - Chapter 3. Fighting Resumes; The Sacred Band of Thebes and the Battle of Leuctra
39:18 - Chapter 4. The End of Spartan Supremacy and Thebes' Growth
50:01 - Chapter 5. The Great Invasion

Complete course materials are available at the Open Yale Courses website: http://open.yale.edu/courses

This course was recorded in Fall 2007.