Profile pre-empts new history of Sparta by Bayliss

Profile Books has snapped up Sparta: The Rise and Fall of an Ancient Superpower by Andrew Bayliss, after new editorial director Nick Humphrey pre-empted the title.

Humphrey secured world rights in all languages from Adam Gauntlett at PFD in his first acquisition since permanently joining the independent publisher earlier this month.

The book traces the story of Ancient Greece’s iconic city-state from its beginnings as a hamlet in the Peloponnese to its rise as the foremost military superpower of the classical world.

"Andrew Bayliss uncovers the eclectic quirks that set Sparta above its rivals: its famous double monarchy, the harsh methods for raising children as soldiers, and the unique role of women in Spartan life," the synopsis reads. "Sparta was the world’s first superpower and its legacy is still shaping popular culture and politics today. This is the story of its rise and fall.

"The Spartans’ reputation as fighters is matched only by their mythic code of honour. Their torch has been carried by footballers and politicians, video games and philosophers alike. But who really were the Spartans? And what was the driving force behind the rise and dramatic fall of Sparta?"

Bayliss is associate professor in Greek history at the University of Birmingham. Since learning about the Battle of Thermopylae at the age of 12 he has been fascinated by Spartans and what the ancient world can teach us about the modern world. He has taught and studied in Australia, Greece and the UK.

"When I first encountered the Spartans as a school student, I was drawn to their popular image as exceptional warriors who were trained to sacrifice themselves for the greater good," he said. "But the modern veneration of the Spartans typically overlooks the often truly dark side of ancient Sparta such as their arrogance, brutal mistreatment of their helot slaves, and their surprisingly frequent military failings. In this book I want to show readers the Spartans as they likely were, warts and all."

Non-fiction publisher Rebecca Gray said: "Nick is a talented editor and a creative publisher. He is a huge asset to the team, quickly building strong relationships with colleagues and authors alike. With his first acquisition he brings an exciting historian into the fold. I am very glad indeed to welcome both Andrew Bayliss and Nick to Profile."

Humphrey added: "Like all the best history, Sparta will make us look with fresh eyes at a period that we might think we already know. The Spartans’ bellicose reputation is legendary but what’s the truth behind the legend? I am excited at the prospect of building a list of authors who, like Andrew, are experts in their field and writing exciting non-fiction that aims to change how we look at the world."

Sparta will publish in February 2025.