Most historians have largely ignored the role of politics and military espionage in ancient Greece, despite the fact that there are many examples of espionage and other forms of information gathering from the earliest period of Greek history. The numerous exploits of the heroes recorded in the Iliad and the Odyssey include acts of espionage and subversive activities.

"In many ways, the best example of a secret agent is Odysseus, the son of Laertes. The versatile Odysseus, a master of disguise, spy, saboteur, and ace in deception, serves as a model for future professionals in secret missions."