Book excerpt: Originally published in 1951, this ambitious volume constitutes an exploration into the roots of European thought. Whilst it predominantly examines Greek and Roman ideas, the text also contains allusions to Norse, Celtic, Jewish, Indian, Chinese and Christian sources. Through careful analysis a synthetic approach is developed, one which emphasises the abiding relevance of ancient thought for interpreting the fundamental questions of existence. Exhaustive notes, a large general index, and an index of translated words are included. This is a complex and fascinating book that will be of value to anyone with an interest in classics, literature, philosophy, or the history of ideas.