OECONOMICUS

Xenophon

In a new translation from the Greek

with an introduction by Lynn Cassells

• The first in a new series of ancient wisdom about gardens, agriculture and the home reinterpreted for the modern gardener, small holder and nature lover

All things cultural date back to original agriculture. With new translations and introductions by leading women, modern experts in their field, these classic texts are reinterpreted for a rising generation of agriculturalists, gardeners and nature lovers returning to the land in pursuit of honest and sustainable living. Delightfully packaged as collectible literary gift books they are perfect for the reader interested in understanding which aspects of ancient wisdom and practice from around the world might be of material and philosophical use today as we address climate change, the health of our soils and food stability.

Each book in the series is as distinct in tone as its author was in life. They range from theoretical dialogue to a practical manual on all aspects of husbandry and soil amendments; from an exquisite collection of garden design principles to the grim humour of botanical remedies. Together they are a rich, essential guide to the world’s ancient wisdom of the soil and how we have traditionally survived in harmony with it.

OECONOMICUS is the most important Greek classic text on the management of the household and agriculture. It is one of the earliest works on the subject and offers insight into rural versus urban life, Socrates’ views on wealth, the role of husbands and wives, education, and religion.

Upcoming books in this growing series include the seminal text on agriculture, garden design and the home from each of the following: Ancient Rome, Moorish Spain, Japan, Persia, India, China and the New World.

AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY

Xenophon is considered one of the great writers of antiquity. Born in Athens c. 430 B.C. he was a philosopher, historian and military leader. His classic text “Anabasis” is a first-hand account of his command of the Greek army of Ten Thousand in support of Cyrus the Younger's failed campaign to claim the throne in Persia and is unique for its self reflection and humility. A student of Socrates, his power of persuasion influenced the likes of Cicero who centuries later describing Xenophon’s mastery of composition wrote “the muses were said to speak with the voice of Xenophon”.

Lynn Cassells was a star with her partner Sandra Baer of BBC 2’s “This Farming Life”, and their story was profiled in the Guardian. She studied archaeology at Birmingham University and with Sandra is the author of “Our Wild Farming Life” (Chelsea Green, 2022), the inspirational memoir of two women’s journey from a shared dream of living closer to the land to acquiring 150 acres in the Cairngorms and learning how to farm. Lynbreck Croft has become a leading example of the successful combination of regenerative farming with traditional crofting practices. Lynn is a regular contributor to sustainable farming publications and has appeared on the Lady Farmer podcast. She previously worked as a forest ranger for the National Trust.

“I raced through this beautiful story with mounting awe and excitement. What Lynn and Sandra have achieved . . . is a miracle of rebirth . . .Their pragmatism, honesty and openness to new and old ideas shines through on every page. I hope it inspires legions of new farmers.” Isabella Tree, author of “Wilding”

“Neighbours embraced their dream and wanted to make it happen. To be a part of it. The gift of a cow. The gift of fuel. The gift of thousands of years of experience, knowledge and a love for the land.” Euan McIlwraith, BBC Radio Scotland

"This is not a step back but the key to all our futures.” Patrick Barkham, author of “Wild Child”.

Publication Details

Subject: Home & Garden

Format: HB
Extent: 112pp
Publication Date: November 2023
Price: £15
Illustrations: black and white line drawings throughout