Published in the late 18th century, this is the conclusion of a wildly popular fictional travel diary. The author, Jean-Jacques Barthélemy, uses the clever device of a young foreigner, Anacharsis, to explore classical Greece. Think of it as an 18th-century travel vlog, but in book form.

The Story

Anacharsis, a curious traveler from Scythia (a region north of the Black Sea), continues his journey across ancient Greece. He doesn’t just visit ruins; he talks to people. He observes festivals, listens to philosophers debate, and asks questions about how their society works. The plot is really the journey itself—his growing understanding of Greek culture, from its grand political ideals in Athens to its religious rituals and athletic games. We see this legendary civilization through fresh, wondering eyes.

Why You Should Read It

What makes this special is the double layer. You’re learning about ancient Greece, but you’re seeing it through the lens of an 18th-century French scholar. Barthélemy’s love for the classical world is infectious. He makes philosophy feel like a lively conversation and history feel like present-day gossip. Anacharsis is the perfect guide—his outsider status means everything is explained simply, without assuming you already know who Pericles was.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect pick for anyone who finds straight history books a bit stiff. It’s for the reader who enjoys historical fiction, grand tours, and smart, conversational writing. If you’ve ever enjoyed a book that transports you completely to another time and makes you wish you could stay there, give this classic a try. Just be sure to start with Volume One!