This is an auction for THE MASK OF APOLLO by Mary Renault.

From Wikipedia:

"The Mask of Apollo is a historical novel written by Mary Renault. Set in the ancient Greek world during the 4th century BC, the novel is written as the first-person narrative of a fictional character, Nikeratos (or 'Niko'), an actor. Throughout his professional life and his work in Syracuse and Athens, Nikeratos meets several historical characters and becomes a witness (and sometimes a marginal participant) in the political conflicts of Syracuse. Involved from early childhood in the theatre, the Athenian-born Nikeratos grows into a successful actor through his performance in tragedies. During his formative period, he meets the philosopher Plato and Dion, a respected politician from Syracuse and brother-in-law to the city's tyrannical ruler Dionysios the Elder. Nikeratos frequents Plato's academy and grows to appreciate his wisdom, though he also discerns that Plato and Dion are somewhat more idealistic than practical in their views on humanity and government. Nikeratos sails for Syracuse as part of a theatre troupe, but upon arrival receives the news that Dionysios. their patron, has just died. Nikeratos chooses to remain in Syracuse despite the dangerous political climate and as a result meets and makes a favourable impression upon the city's new ruler, Dionysios the Younger. While Dionysios is not the brutal tyrant his father was, he is still a young, dissolute and politically inept ruler, and Dion invites Plato to serve as a teacher to Dionysios; the two hope to mould him into a philosopher-king based upon Platonic ideals..."

More on Wikipedia.

Paperback 2004

378 pages.

Near new condition.

The cost of shipping is $6.95.

There is of course no charge for shipping if you collect this book from my shop in Palmerston North following the auction.

Payment within seven days, please.