Hellenistic philosophy : introductory readings /

This book, translated by two excellent scholars, consists of major texts of the Hellenistic schools of philosophy--Epicureanism, Stoicism, and Skepticism. The translations are literal and aim at consistency in the rendering of technical terms (there are some curious lapses). The texts are presented continously and in full, where possible, rather than divided according to topic. No commentary is provided, and only brief introductions; a medium-sized index and a glossary of the principal technical terms are of some help in orienting the reader. The major competitor is Volume 1 of Anthony A. Long and David N. Sedley's The Hellenistic Philosophers (CH, Oct '87), which contains generally more readable translations, assembled by topic, of many of the same materials (excluding, however, the late skeptical tradition); extensive commentaries are also included. The less expensive Inwood and Gerson collection complements Long and Sedley's. It should be acquired by every college and university library. D. Konstan Brown University