Pericles and Aspasia: A Story of Ancient Greece by Yvonne Korshak

Pericles and Aspasia: A Story of Ancient Greece Reviews

• 
  Amy Turner

  In the game "Assassins Creed Odyssey," players live and breathe Greek history and mythology: the varied and diverse islands, sprawling with unique characters, each with their own motivations, lives, and stories. Landscapes brim with color, trilling music and sea birds float on the balmy and briny ocean breeze, and imposing ships cluster in Grecian harbors. People mill around hawking their wares, engaging in conversation, or attending to their crafts. And above all, the pantheon keeps an eye on their creation.
  
  So, why mention a video game in a book review? Author and academic Yvonne Korshak's debut novel "Pericles and Aspasia" resounds with a number of similarities with this game: the creation of a living, breathing Greece in all its beauty; the immersion of the partaker in a foreign-but-somehow-familiar world; and, perhaps most acutely, the placement of Pericles and Aspasia at the very top.
  
  It might seem that I paint these works with a rose-colored filter, as if Ancient Greece were in a constant state of halcyon. Far from it, actually. For both portray Greece with the good and the not-so-good. Ancient Greece comprised a number of divergent city-states that occasionally allied together against domestic and foreign incursions. War broke out frequently and often lasted for years. Borders and allegiances shifted constantly. Systems of government vied for prominence. New ways of thinking contrasted with the old. Sometimes chaos reigned.
  
  And it's against this backdrop that Korshak sets her novel. "Pericles and Aspasia" offers readers a chance to delve into Greek history during the so-called "Golden Age of Athens" (also referred to as the Age of Pericles). Breathtaking in execution, exquisite in detail, realistic in interpretation, "Pericles and Aspasia" tells the story of the statesman and general Pericles and his lover Aspasia, a hetaira and the daughter of an intellectual.
  
  Korshak splits the story into two narratives, one for each protagonist. Pericles struggles to balance the needs of the Athenian democracy with his own ambitions including the construction of a gold and ivory statue of Athena Parthenos. Aspasia, on the other hand, works to create a good life in a society where women can't vote or hold jobs. Their lives intersect, and soon, they can't live without each other.
  
  I loved the realistic relationship between Pericles and Aspasia. Though they love each other, they still must contend with the realities of their situation: they aren't allowed to wed as Aspasia is not an Athenian citizen; Pericles spends time away at war; and Pericles occasionally dismisses Aspasia's intellectual interests as not being worthy or appropriate because she's a woman. Despite this, their relationship develops and matures, and you can't help but appreciate them.
  
  I don't want to spill too much so you'll have to check this out for yourself! I can't recommend this book enough.
• 
  Annarella

  A book thal talks about historical characters like Pericles and Aspasia, I was a bit wary at the beginning as I read a number of retelling that left cold.
  This is a well researched and intriguing book. It's the Golden Age of Athens and the characters are very important in the history of Western civilization.
  A compelling and well written story.
  Recommended.
  Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
• 
  bibliolatry

  Pericles and Aspasia was so much better than I had imagined. I have tried many times to enjoy the classics but have always found classical Greek literature boring and unrelatable. As someone who was born in Athens, I wanted to learn more about the Golden Age of Greece, so I studied (very briefly) Ancient Greek. I took courses in Greek history and classics. I visited Greece a dozen times, and yet never enjoyed any of it. This is the first time I have read anything dealing with Ancient Greece that has been enjoyable, entertaining and has inspired me to learn more. I couldn’t put this book down, and it took me a long time to finish because I continually stopped to Google, research, and read the background of EVERYTHING that was touched upon in this novel.
  
  There was a tremendous amount of important historical events that occurred during the lifetime of Pericles and Aspasia, but Yvonne Korshak’s beautiful writing integrated these events so seamlessly that the characters involved became real to me. Their love story—far from being mushy—was that of two people who loved and respected each other. I could feel their angst and disappointments for what was happening at the time, but I could also feel the love and dedication they had for each other. Their alluding to each other as Odysseus and Nausicaa was a beautiful allegory that described their relationship.
  
  It is obvious that the author knows her history. She writes with intelligence and authority, but she does not insult the reader’s intelligence using the strategy, As You Know, Bob (This cheap trope dumps a lot of background information into the dialogue when it is obvious that the characters already know something.) When I started the book, I thought I would not be able to follow the events and characters so it would be over my head. It was not. I quickly was able to understand and follow the characters and events. There is a glossary in the back of the book for reference.
  
  I loved YK’s descriptions. I could visualize the backdrop. Descriptions such as the Panathenaic Procession, during the arrival of the gold and ivory statue were described so well, that I could see it as if I were there. I could feel the heat, smell the roasting meats, hear the sound made by the nervous animals and clank and rattle of armor, even sense the emotions of the various participants during that historic day.
  
  This was a very well written, intelligent book, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who has the desire to learn and be entertained.
  
  I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
  
  #PericlesandAspasia #NetGalley
• 
  Leventak

  For fans of historical fiction, Pericles and Aspasia: A Story of Ancient Greece by Yvonne Korshak is an enthralling story set during Athens' amazing Golden Age in the 5th century BC. The author deftly weaves together the immersive spirit of the age, with its environs, individuals, customs, governance, and major events, to create a riveting love tale centered on two intriguing characters. Notable characters from ancient Greece and significant events, such as the construction of the Parthenon, battles, and the formation of Athenian democracy, feature prominently throughout the story. This scholarly work immerses readers in the historical period while keeping a compelling pace. You will learn so much by reading this book. Pericles and Aspasia comes highly recommended for its level of detail and quality.
• 
  Ray

  I have a soft spot regarding stories set in Ancient Greece, even though I may not be highly knowledgeable about its particular mythology. Nonetheless, I always find a lot of enjoyment in the stories I encounter within this category. "Pericles and Aspasia: A Story of Ancient Greece" is no exception, and it was a captivating experience from start to finish.
  
  The book starts with Aspasia moving to Athens as a courtesan. She meets many people and eventually meets Pericles. After a few interactions, they form a connection. And there starts the real story. However, it isn't only about them. Other characters are introduced, and we also see the problems that were faced at that time. The book seems to have been researched quite well.
  
  I think it's important to note the author's style of writing. Personally, I found it poetic and easy to read. She leaves a reader anticipating more and picturing the scenes vividly! I wasn't expecting to like this book as much as I did. The cover threw me off as I thought it would be more like a textbook. I am glad I got myself to open the first page.
  
  The book is a captivating, enjoyable, and unforgettable read that will transport you to the ancient world and leave you longing for more. Discovering the lives of Aspasia and Pericles within these pages has been a delightful and enriching experience.
• 
  Cindy Ross

  Pericles and Aspasia Book Review
  
  I had expected a lot from both Pericles and Aspasia, but they were surprisingly better than I had imagined. I have tried to read classical Greek literature many times, this is the first time I couldn’t lay the book down. I have traveled the world and have such an intriguing interest in Greece, even more so now.
  
  This book, which is the first time that I have actually read anything from Greece and found it so enjoyable, it has also inspired me to further my knowledge. I was so hooked by this book that I spent a lot of time researching everything that was referenced in it.
  
  Although there were a lot of historical events that occurred in the lives of Aspasia and Pericles, Yvonne Korshak managed to seamlessly integrate these into her story. The characters were so relatable, and their love story was not just about their disagreements and angst, but it was also about their dedication and love for each other. The alluding to one another as Nausicaa and Odysseus was a beautiful depiction of their relationship.
  
  I really hope to read more from Yvonne Korshak. Forever a historical fiction fan. -Cindy Ross, Ph.D. (@thebooknerddoctor)
• 
  Paula

  It's sad such a rich, interesting story can morph into a plodding, boring book. The writing's choppy in a way that's jarring,never flows, characters are cardboard. Such a great opportunity,wasted.
• 
  Simon Mee

  Yes, it was a big head.
  
  Pericles and Aspasia is a call back to the best part of Greek History – not the Persian Wars or Alexander, but when the best direct democracy in the world could walk and chew gum at the same time.
  
  Having a chat
  
  “I’m thorry, Pericles, but I didn’t mean to kill him.  I jutht wanted his feathers.”
  
  Pericles and Aspasia is from the point of view of the two eponymous characters for several years after end of the First Peloponnesian War.  There’s a pretty hard limit on these two, so Korshak lingers on the moments she sees as important to the story.
  
  A major corollary of this is that conversations on Pericles and Aspasia take time.  The meander.  No, they are not pointless, they serve plot/character/theme as needed, but they are not efficient in doing so like, say Avenger
  
  I consider that Korshak’s approach is closer to how people converse – not always, but generally so, feeling out what each other is getting at, with occasional miscommunications or lengthy asides.  It does mean that the flow is not as good as a more focussed approach, and I wouldn’t put her style at the level of Colleen McCullough, who somehow made meandering efficient, but it does add a touch of reality to the characters.  The lengthening of the conversations generally allows for a bit more layering of characters, such as the prolonged discussion around the Parthenon friezes.
  
  There’s also an understated humour in Korshak’s conversations, particularly around Alcibiades’ lisp, or the love song between soldiers.  It’s the bluntness of it that appeals to me, rather than trying to craft the perfect witty retort, though Aspasia herself is no conversational slouch.
  
  Golden Age
  
  No, not just at the root.  Herodotus showed us that history is like a river fed by many streams.”
  
  The sources Korshak used for Pericles and Aspasia makes it clear that she knows far more about Ancient Greek history than me.  It is therefore interesting that there are some anachronistic elements to the book. For example, the Athenian military comes off as more coherent than my understanding of.  I wonder if this is a case of simplifying things for the reader’s comprehension and nothing really turns on it in terms of storytelling. 
  
  It does make me second guess other elements of the book and – initially – I thought the name-dropping of famous figures verged on parody… …but actually she’s correct of who was there and when.  While it does seem like every Greek of note and his sacred cow spent some period in Athens during its golden age, it is cool to see an author play around with them in terms of interactions between each other.  Some of the apparent fame revolves around this being a relatively well documented time – the paucity of characters elevates those that we do have.  However, it does make me stop and take in the breadth and depth of talent packed into the place and time.
  
  “Democracy puts the reins of government into the hands of men who’ve done nothing more than walk behind a mule.  Democracy ruins the best men and elevates the worst.”
  
  The setting and pacing won’t be for everyone, and its not a politico-military thriller.  I did also struggle with the conversations on philosophy, which might be a personal failing.  However, I enjoyed the time taken with this one.
• 
  A. L.

  This book was a little slow in places and it was not always clear what was going on, but there is a shocking dearth of good books, or any books, written about Pericles and Aspasia. There wasn’t a very strong plot line; it seemed more to focus on their day to day lives, with episodes of Pericles adventures, especially focused on the building of the Parthenon. That was really enjoyable. I liked reading about all the little details and possible hidden meanings in the friezes and the importance of the sculptures. I hope I get to see the Parthenon in person one day, but if I don’t, this novel gave me some great insight into the beauty and depth of meaning behind it. This was a very well researched book, and it surprised me with some information and viewpoints that I’d never come across, despite my years of study of classical history. I never knew Athens created colonies in Italy! (And I’d like to know more about those.) I’d also never, in all my reading, seen the Peloponnesian War presented as differing government styles feuding. Maybe that’s over-simplifying but the author presents it at one point as “oligarchy” vs “democracy”, and I feel like there has to be some grain of truth to that as well as all the other myriad of factors that went into that long series of battles.
  
  The only other complaint is that book seemed to end rather abruptly but I’m hopeful the sequel will be out soon! I’d like to see more and maybe get more intimate detail about the households of Athens once the plague hits.
• 
  Anandhi

  Nice
• 
  Carole Rae

  It feels nice jumping back into ancient times! I love a good historical fiction set in Ancient Greece or Rome. Always a blast.
  
  Here we follow Pericles and Aspasia and their romance. Pericles is a well-respected statesman while Aspasia was taken from her home has become a courtesan. The two meet and fall in love. This love could ruin Pericles' reputation and make him question many laws and societal norms.
  
  Throughout my journey of learning about Ancient Greece the name Pericles has been mentioned more than once. He was pretty prominent in his time. I'll admit...I don't recall the name Aspasia as much. I'm sure she was mentioned, but never really dwelled upon. After reading this, I went on a journey to learn some more about her. Her history isn't really known. They don't even know if she ever became Pericles' wife or whatnot. She is a mystery. That is interesting and a little bit sad. Heck, we can't even be sure of Pericles' first wife's name! Sad that these women are barely remembered.
  
  I enjoyed this story quite a bit.I loved reading both his POV and her POV. I'm glad we got to see both sides of the story. I, especially, loved seeing Aspasia's story. I know we can only guess, but I loved the origin story the author gave her. It was fitting and seemed so right.
  
  There are a few spots of info-dumping, but I found sometimes it was necessary for the story/scene at hand. Sometimes the info-dumping was a hair too much.
  
  This was a pretty hefty book and it worked! To be honest? I didn't want it to end. I wanted to see more. No spoilers, but there is more to the story and I would've loved an epilogue of sorts! The ending ended well, but I'm greedy and wanted more...especially of Aspasia. I loved her while Pericles...I liked him....but I wanted to kick him sometimes too.
  
  The narrator was fantastic. I feel like I have heard his voice before but when I looked up other books he has done I don't recall those books. But yes, his voice was fitting and he did a good job even with the female voices. A lot of the female voices were similar to each other, but he did good. Luckily there weren't a lot of women running around so that made the job easier I suppose.
  
  All-in-all I did enjoy this. Some info-dumping that was a bit too much, but it was easy to wade through that, and still like the story. The narrator was fantastic and fit. If you like historical fiction about Ancient Greece I fully recommend this one. It was a good one! 4 stars from me.
• 
  hTimSs S

  Imagine if you will, stepping into a time machine and landing smack in the middle of Ancient Greece. Not the sanitized, white-marble version we see in museums, but the real, gritty, technicolor version. This is the Greece of "Pericles and Aspasia," where Yvonne Korshak breathes life into history like some sort of academic necromancer.
  The book itself is a chunky 500 pages, but it's less like reading a tome and more like falling headfirst into a Netflix series set in the "Golden Age of Athens." You've got Pericles, the big man on campus, juggling democracy, construction projects, and war. And then there’s Aspasia, who's basically the ancient equivalent of a modern-day influencer, except with more intellect and less Instagram.
  Korshak does this thing where she splits the story between these two. It's like she's got two pots on the stove and she's making sure neither boils over. Pericles is off doing his statesman thing, while Aspasia is navigating a society that's about as woman-friendly as a bear trap. Their romance is like watching a historical soap opera, but with more togas and less amnesia plotlines.
  Now, the thing about this book is, it doesn't shy away from the less savory bits of the era. It's all there - the war, the politics, the societal norms that make you glad you live in the 21st century. But it’s not all doom and gloom; there’s beauty in the details, the vivid landscapes, and the intricate characters that Korshak conjures up.
  Reading "Pericles and Aspasia" is an experience. It's like Korshak invited you to a banquet in ancient Athens, and you’re just there, munching on grapes, eavesdropping on philosophical debates, and trying not to get wine on your toga. If you're into Greek history, or just like the idea of time-traveling through a book, this one's a must-read.
  In essence, "Pericles and Aspasia" is a vibrant, detailed foray into a world that's both alien and familiar. It's history told with a flair that only Korshak could muster, and it’s as educational as it is entertaining. So, grab your chiton and your copy of the book, and get ready for a wild ride through Ancient Greece.
• 
  Jeff Carpenter

  As I write this, the book has an average rating of 4.2 stars, based on 746 ratings. Don't believe it. Some reviewers have praised the author's writing and her ability to tell a compelling story. That's simply not true. The writing is not of the first caliber; it is often clumsy, in some places contradictory, or such that it would only make sense if some missing bit were inserted.
  
  This is terrible news... either the reviews have been hacked or it's the result of some clever bot scheme. Here's the page of one of the reviewers who praised the book:
  
  https://www.goodreads.com/review/list...
  She posted 19 reviews today, Oct. 15th; She has posted 82 reviews in the past 5 days, which would average out to 5,986 books a year. She posted 209 reviews the day she joined Goodreads, and then took a year and 7 months off to catch up, then posted 108 books on one day, most of them not rated (?).
  
  What a story awaits the author who wants to pursue this reviewer!
• 
  Soochi Sandhiya

  A beautiful love story set in a historical background.
  
  I was thrilled to get my copy of this book. The title reveals that it is about two people named Pericles and Aspacia, but it doesn't unfold the beautiful and emotional love story embedded in this set in the golden era (history).
  
  Pericles is a renowned statesman and general, whereas her love interest, Aspasia, a brilliant woman, is a philosopher's daughter. They belong to two different hierarchies, and that reveals a lot of unspoken issues between them. But their love ignores or overcomes all the social barriers, and even Pericles' reputation as a leader of the Athenian democracy is put on stake.
  
  The love story is beautifully written, and you would feel connected to the seamless flow of emotions. The writer has vividly described the society and scenario of that time, and this makes the read unique. The creativity and story-telling are commendable. This keeps the readers hooked on this story.
  
   
• 
  Lenor

  A very unique historical fiction story, I really liked the authors vision on this one, Pericles and Aspasia are placed in some of the most controversial and current topics, such as democracy, hierarchy, the ironies of gender; together and apart they live different experiences that made them appreciate more society but also their relationship with family and each other. They both are fighting for what they believe in and is thanks to that, that their paths crossed, making them one very strong couple with very strong beliefs.
  
  The author herself is an expert in Art History, not only she has a MA in Classics and Classical Archaeology she has a PhD in Art History from the University of California, Berkeley.
  
• 
  Bailie

  I was extremely intrigued by this story, mythology is one of my favorite genres to read and this definitely hit the spot for me!
• 
  Janalyn Prude

  After escaping being kidnapped by a Danish ship she winds up in Athens the place Aspasia wanted to be. Soon after arriving she meets a prostitute named silky Who not only helps her fine the kin she has that lives in Athens but helps her to meet Pericles. Unlike most prostitutes at that time a Spasia has opinions about world events she can read swim but most of all she becomes important to Pericles a leader in his own right. Pericles is a general and a man that other men submit to and admire he called talls to know one… Until he meets a Spasia. He is a man who has experienced most things in life but find himself having many first with this well bred prostitute. She is the daughter of a philosopher but that isn’t what causes Pericles to come to respect and love Aspasia. I love books about Rome and have rarely found a romance that in my opinion was legitimate but OMG if Pericles anticipation isn’t the most legitimate Roman love story they have talk of war battles but 99% of it is the romance between Pericles and Aspazier and I loved it I cannot say enough about it I definitely recommend it it is an awesome awesome read! Even if you are not into books about wrong the way I am I believe just loving romance stories is enough to enjoy this book I totally and definitely recommend it it is a great great book! Obviously the author has done her due diligence in researching the social and political things of that era because it certainly shows and readers like me love that. Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
• 
  Samm Son

  I initially baulked at this hefty tome and wondered how I would manage to wade through it, but nothing prepared me for how much I would embrace this outstanding work of historical fiction from Yvonne Korshak. I felt as if I had been transported to ancient Greece, in all its glory and splendour - the evocative imagery of sights, sounds and smells were vividly portrayed and I lingered and pondered over the endearing use of language throughout the book. I'm fervently hoping there will be a continuation of sorts from this gifted author.
  
  The story follows the highly-respected statesman, Pericles and his courtesan, the mysterious Aspasia and their well-documented love affair. Aspasia has been taken from her home and on meeting Pericles a love match is born, but will it impinge upon the good reputation of Pericles and cause him to ponder over many of his country's laws and societal norms?
  
  The delightful characters, Sophocles the playwright and Silky, Aspasia's courtesan friend, are vivid and come alive between the book's pages. From the shores of the Port of Piraeus across the Aegean Sea to eastern Greece, we see the treacherous paths that have to be negotiated and the high stakes involved.
  
  This book was a memorable read and I highly recommend it to lovers of superb historical fiction.
• 
  Tanu

  There are few books that truly immerse you into a world long gone, transporting you back in time and placing you amidst its bustling life and vivid imagery. This book is one such masterpiece. It's evident from the detailed narrative that the author delved deep into her own reservoirs of passion and creativity and into meticulous research.
  
  The story describes Ancient Athens so vividly that it's almost like you can touch the bumpy roads and hear the busy market sounds. If you love historical stories, this book is a treasure. The characters don't just seem real; they feel alive, with thoughts and feelings. Their world is so carefully explained that it feels like you could reach out and touch it.
  
  But this book isn't only about love. It goes really deep into the problems that happened in politics during that time. It shows how tricky it was to keep democracy safe from things that could harm it. Also, it does a great job showing the skilled people who built the famous buildings in Ancient Athens during its best times. These buildings are like proof of that fantastic era.
  
  Grab your copy
  here or
  here.
• 
  Christina F

  Pericles and Aspasia: A story of Ancient Greece by Yvonne Korshak is a historical fiction novel that takes the reader back in time to ancient Greece where Aspasia meets Pericles. A large part of the story is when Aspasia escapes pirates who wanted to sell her and meets Pericles. Though Pericles is married it doesn’t stop him from pursuing a relationship with Aspasia. Interestingly Pericles created a law that forbade citizens from marrying foreigners, which Aspasia was. Because of this law Aspasia worries about her future with Pericles. Additionally, war breaks out when the Spartan tyrant rebels against Athen’s democracy, and Pericles goes to war. Will Pericles’ love for Aspasia survive the war? Will the Athenians defeat the Spartans? Will laws be changed?
  
  The book is well researched and has historical events sprinkled throughout. The author did a great job writing the story about the ancient times of Greece as well as the mythology surrounding the gods. The author’s writing was so descriptive, making the characters come to life and making me feel like I was in Athens at times. Though this is a long book it really held my attention throughout. A very fascinating read!
• 
  Julie Barrett

  Pericles & Aspasia by Yvonne Korshak
  This story is political and historic along with a lot of other genres all mixed in.
  Very entertaining read. Love the old times of Athens, 400 BC. There is so much strategic information about how they battle, how they fight-as in Olympic games, and moves they make politically.
  Fascinating read. Details are very descriptive, you can see what they are seeing.
  How love strong Aspasia is from when she escapes the ships and swims to the shore... Philosophers are enlightening in this book. Pericles is an all around leader and a man who leads a life that is admired.
  Construction of the Parthenon was mazing to say the least and what was included and what had to be changed... Don't let the size of the book keep you from reading this. so many other secrets you will discover.
  Cast of characters is attached at the end, note from the author and the changes they made, resources are listed also.
  Received this review copy from the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
  
• 
  C1-10P yana

  I was very excited about this book, considering the author's background in archaeology.
  
  Unfortunately, there's a whole lot missing from this book. Stylistically, the writing is missing a lot of connective tissue, consistency and polish. It's often unclear who's the subject, who's the object, or who's even doing the speaking.
  
  Both main characters started out with promising individualism but then quickly fizzled out and blended into the same pining and insecurity, only distinguishable by their gender coding.
  
  The side characters and opposition were similarly interchangeable and vaguely unremarkable.
  
  The two things I really enjoyed were the historical facts underpinning the story and the atmosphere. Still, both were frequently let down by anachronistic words that could have easily been replaced with less immersion-breaking synonyms (which takes us right back to my gripes about the style).
  
  You can tell the author loves the story and subject matter; I hope the sequel receives better editing and more stylistic attention.
• 
  Pegboard

  Pericles and Aspasia: A Story of Ancient Greece by Yvonne Korshak is a fascinating story set during the Golden Age of Athens. It was a period of significant cultural a political development. Pericles was known for eloquent speeches and leadership skills, and he was a key figure in the political life of Athens. Aspasia, a foreign-born woman had her heart set on the evasive and intriguing Pericles. She caught his attention with her quick wit and well-read intelligence. Together they made a dynamic couple.
  
  Though the real Pericles and Aspasia are the backbones of Yvonne Korshak's fictitious story, the author brings them alive. You are engaged in the political and philosophers' world of enlightenment as they create one of the earliest forms of democracy. I felt like I was peeking into the lives of two democratic founders. Their accomplishments and failures are laid out for all to judge and adore. I highly recommend this novel; it was a treat to read.