This book, first published in 1984, is widely considered the definitive work on the history of the Olympic Games. It delves into the origins, development, and cultural significance of the modern Olympic movement.
Guttmann has also written other works, including:
* "Sports and Spectacle: The Rise of Modern Sports"
* "The Olympics: A History of the Modern Games"
* "From Ritual to Record: The Nature of Modern Sports"
He has also contributed numerous articles and essays to academic journals on topics related to sport, culture, and history.
While his writing focuses primarily on the Olympics, Guttmann's scholarship has significantly contributed to the field of sport history and helped shape our understanding of the modern Olympic Games.