Through his Lives of Sparta's leaders and his recording of memorable Spartan Sayings, Plutarch depicts a people who lived frugally and mastered their emotions in all aspects of life, who disposed of unhealthy babies in a deep chasm, introduced a gruelling regimen of military training for boys, and treated their serfs brutally. Plutarch's writing brings to life the personalities and achievements of Sparta. Revised edition includes a new introduction , a new essay on Plutarch, notes, a glossary, updated further reading, and an index.