Great power diplomacy in the Hellenistic world / John D. Grainger.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Grainger, John D., 1939- author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Greece--Foreign relations--To 146 B.C.

Greece.

International relations.

Rome--Foreign relations--265-30 B.C.

Rome.

Carthage (Extinct city)--Foreign relations.

Carthage (Extinct city).

Mediterranean Region--History--To 476.

Mediterranean Region.

History.

Hellenism.

Physical Description:

viii, 264 pages ; 24 cm

Place of Publication:

London ; New York : Routledge, 2017.

Summary:

Diplomacy is a neglected aspect of Hellenistic history, despite the fact that war and peace were the major preoccupations of the rulers of the kingdoms of the time. It becomes clear that it is possible to discern a set of accepted practices which were generally followed by the kings from the time of Alexander to the approach of Rome. The republican states were less bound by such practices, and this applies above all to Rome and Carthage. By concentrating on diplomatic institutions and processes, therefore, it is possible to gain a new insight into the relations between the kingdoms. This study investigates the making and duration of peace treaties, the purpose of so-called "marriage alliances," the absence of summit meetings, and looks in detail at the relations between states from a diplomatic point of view, rather than only in terms of the wars they fought. The system which had emerged as a result of the personal relationships between Alexander's successors, continued in operation for at least two centuries. The intervention of Rome brought in a new great power which had no similar tradition, and the Hellenistic system crumbled therefore under Roman pressure.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

9781472484291

1472484290

OCLC:

965617200