The Last Athenian (1883)

Set in ancient Greece, the novel follows Ariston, the last Athenian after the Peloponnesian War, as he embarks on a quest for a new home. His journey introduces him to various figures, including Spartan soldiers, Eudora, and the philosopher Plato, prompting him to explore contrasting philosophical and political ideologies. Through these encounters, Ariston grapples with themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning. Rydberg's work offers a rich exploration of ancient Greek culture and society, making it a thought-provoking historical fiction.