Atlantis - Modern Theories and Ancient Tales

The legend of the disappearing continent has deep and ancient roots. By G.E. Millward, G.W. Evans, and L.E. Hull.

A map showing the supposed extent of the Atlantean Empire. From Ignatius L. Donnelly's Atlantis: the Antediluvian World, 1882The name of Atlantis has long stirred the curiosity and imagination of men. Almost two and a half thousand years ago Plato wrote in Timaeus and Critias of a disaster in which the sea floor opened up and swallowed a whole continent and its people within ‘one night and one day’. Plato’s description of Atlantis originated with his ancestor, Solon, who came across the details of the story during his travels in Egypt. Solon brought the tale to Ancient Greece, and Plato recorded it at a later date.

To continue reading this article you will need to purchase access to the online archive.

Buy Online Access  Buy Print & Archive Subscription

If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in.

Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.