Shadow of the Acropolis, by Richard Lyons, is the second volume of the series “DNA of democracy” and focuses on subjects such as equality, independence, and American history. He focuses on the most important political figures and acts, going from the acropolis to the evolution of society and how our government has failed to sustain liberty ideals. The difference between what should be and what happens in society is quite unsettling, and the aim of the book is to reflect on how things went and how they are going, thinking about what will happen in the future.

Lyons writes in a straightforward way, starting from Greek society and slowly getting to today’s situation. He analyses each society’s characteristics in a trip through the world and through different eras.

As a reader keen on details, I appreciated the presence of the illustrations, which might look funny or cute at first but gain importance as one reads the book. They are all satirical images, and their symbolism grows as the chapters continue. For example, in the author’s opinion, the octopus representing the administrative state might look cute at first but then seems increasingly corrupted and wicked, just like society’s evolution.

Furthermore, the author addresses the reader directly, asking questions and trying to get the latter to stay active while reading. Finally, the use of illustrations helps readers grasp the concepts and splits the book into three parts, focusing on three different aspects.

Shadow of the Acropolis, by Richard Lyons is an eye-opening look at the historical background of what Lyons calls a “hybrid nation,” which will catch most readers’ attention. This book is insightful for those who are keen on history and politics. I would like to end this review with a quote from the author: “- The State seeks to amputate the DNA contained in our history, in our founding ethos and separate us from the heroes who made America a free and independent democracy devoted to the rights of humanity.”

Pages: 441 | ASIN : B0B9V86BHJ

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2022/12/06/shadows-of-the-acropolis/