This volume of Pausanias' comprehensive tour of Greece explores the regions of Achaia and Arcadia through meticulous geographical observations and historical anecdotes. The author traces the origins of ancient settlements, their founding heroes, and the shifting political fortunes of Greek cities under the shadow of Roman dominance. Special attention is given to the mythological underpinnings of local sanctuaries, river deities, and cults, particularly those associated with Demeter, Apollo, and Poseidon.
The narrative opens in Achaia, detailing the twelve traditional cities, their Ionian roots, and the subsequent Achæan migration. Pausanias recounts the complex web of colonization, interstate conflicts, and the eventual rise and fall of the Achæan League, culminating in the Roman conquest under Mummius and the destruction of Corinth. Throughout this historical overview, the author notes the physical layout of towns, notable artworks, and unique local rituals, such as the human sacrifices once practiced at Patræ.
Transitioning to Arcadia, the narrative delves into the interior highlands, characterized by isolation and ancient traditions. Pausanias explores the remote origins of the Arcadian people, beginning with Pelasgus and the myth of Lycaon, whose impiety led to his transformation into a wolf. He documents the numerous small townships that eventually coalesced into Megalopolis under the guidance of Epaminondas.
Religion and myth permeate the Arcadian landscape, with extensive accounts of sacred caves, mysterious rites, and localized deities such as the horse-headed Black Demeter at Phigalia and the elusive goddess Despœna at Lycosura. The author meticulously describes the architecture of major sanctuaries, including the temple of Apollo the Helper at Bassæ, designed by Ictinus.
The historical thread continues through the wars between Sparta and the Arcadian leagues, the rise of powerful leaders like Philopœmen, and the gradual economic and demographic decline of Greece. Pausanias reflects on the mutability of human affairs, observing how once-great cities like Mycenae and Thebes fell into ruin while others flourished under Roman rule.
The work concludes with detailed itineraries through Tegea, Mantinea, and surrounding territories, cataloging tombs of legendary figures such as Orestes and Epaminondas. Pausanias preserves the oral histories and religious customs of a fading Hellenic world, blending empirical geography with the rich tapestry of Greek mythology.
