Rise and Fall of the Spartans

2002 1 Seasons ⭐ 8.5

Documentary

Explores every aspect of Sparta's culture, lifestyle, history and legacy. Author Steven Pressfield reflects on the significance of the Battle of Thermopylae, where a force led by 300 Spartan warriors stalled the advance of a hundred-thousand-plus strong Persian army for nearly a week. Scholars explore the factors that drove the Peloponnesian city-state to strive for martial excellence. Ancient accounts explain how Sparta's warriors were trained and detail their prowess in battle.

Seasons

1. Code of Honor

2002-09-30

This episode explores the creation of the ancient world’s most formidable military force. It details the "Agoge"—the brutal training system that forged Spartan boys into elite war…

2. Tides of War

2002-09-30

Following the Persian Wars, Sparta faces its greatest challenge: a decades-long struggle for Greek hegemony against the naval power of Athens. This part analyzes the Peloponnesian…