Spartan Stoic - what is this site?

Book reviews for those wanting to learn.

A book review is very much based on opinion. I aim to speak on topics I know both more or less about, and for the latter especially, we will be going on a journey of learning. This breadth, I hope, will allow me to delve deeper into particular subjects whilst still investigating and enjoying new ones.

Predominantly, book reviews will be based around ancient history (especially Greece and Rome), philosophy, psychology, psychiatry, biographies and fantasy/sci-fi. Yet topics will vary according to my taste, and I aim to read outside of my wheelhouse deliberately: to learn about other styles and other genres that I may be interested in.

“No more roundabout discussion of what it makes to be a good man. Be one!” Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, 10.16

Although this is a website dedicated mainly to book reviews, I will also share my other interesting projects as time goes on. The associated videos for book reviews are uploaded to YouTube. In blog posts such as this, I will clearly denote 'what' it is, review, project, ramble, etc.

Why Spartan Stoic?

The nickname hints at the purpose. Excellence of virtue was something the ancient philosophy of Stoicism aimed at, whilst Spartans aimed at excellence for their community (to varying degrees of success). These reflect my goals, to provide informed opinions and content that you enjoy. But in this name is also a duty to speak to truth, even if it is unpalatable, for the Spartans were not perfect, and perhaps there are flaws in Stoic thinking. Although flawed, we will aim towards these ideals and virtues. In a more basic way, it also speaks to some of my principal interests in both ancient history and philosophy.

I look forward to you joining me on this journey. Follow my YouTube for my content, and all other relevant links will be on the homepage of this site.