John Marincola Books

The book examines how ancient Greek and Roman historians asserted their authority within the context of historiographical traditions. It highlights the influence of pioneering historians like Herodotus and Thucydides on their successors, shaping how these writers presented themselves and their narratives to their audiences. Through this exploration, the study reveals the interplay between historical claims and the established conventions of the genre, offering insights into the evolution of historiography in the ancient world.

This collection features significant recent articles that explore ancient Greek and Roman perspectives on historiography. It includes six newly translated essays and offers a specially written introduction that contextualizes these works within both historical and contemporary trends in classical studies. The compilation provides valuable insights into how these civilizations approached the writing of history, enriching the understanding of their intellectual traditions.

One of the masterpieces of classical literature, the Histories describes how a small and quarrelsome band of Greek city states united to repel the might of the Persian empire. But while this epic struggle forms the core of his work, Herodotus' natural curiosity frequently gives rise to colourful digressions - a description of the natural wonders of Egypt; an account of European lake-dwellers; and far-fetched accounts of dog-headed men and gold-digging ants. With its kaleidoscopic blend of fact and legend, the Histories offers a compelling Greek view of the world of the fifth century BC.