The Histories

by Herodotus
The Histories cover
Good Books rating 4.36
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  • ID: 4035
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780191623035
  • Publisher: OUP Oxford
  • Published: 2008-04-17
  • Formats: 9
  • Reviews: 4

Herodotus, renowned as the 'father of history' and ethnography, presents a vivid account of the Persian Wars while delving into the cultures of the peoples he encounters. His narrative is enriched with fascinating tales, from one-eyed men to gold-digging ants, offering a blend of historical insight and captivating storytelling. /n/nThis readable translation is enhanced with expansive notes, providing readers with the necessary background to fully appreciate the depth and context of Herodotus' work. Part of the Oxford World's Classics series, it reflects a commitment to scholarship and offers a wealth of valuable features, including expert introductions and up-to-date bibliographies.

Reviews
Cannonball Read · 2021-10-28
groundbreaking 4.75

The Histories is a groundbreaking work that redefined the meaning of history. It is celebrated for its investigative approach and the author's unique perspective on ancient events.

Herodotus's The Histories is a pioneering work that changed the way history is understood and written. The reviewer praises the book for its investigative approach, highlighting Herodotus's meticulous research and his ability to blend fact and legend. The book is seen as a compelling account of the Greco-Persian Wars, offering a Greek perspective on the world in the fifth century BC. The reviewer notes that the book's blend of history and storytelling makes it an engaging and thought-provoking read. They also appreciate the author's ability to make ancient events feel relevant and relatable, providing valuable insights into the past. Overall, the book is seen as a must-read for anyone interested in ancient history and the development of historical writing.

Quick quotes

    It's a book that changed the meaning of 'history' forever.

    Herodotus was investigating the past with a unique and engaging approach.

    The Histories offers a compelling Greek view of the world in the fifth century BC.

IGC Publishing · 2021-06-24
informative 4.20

The book is noted for its historical significance and the author's unique perspective on ancient events. The reviewer finds it both informative and engaging, despite the passage of time since the events described.

IGC Publishing's review emphasizes the enduring relevance of Herodotus's work, highlighting his innovative approach to history. The reviewer acknowledges that Herodotus was writing about events that occurred a generation before his time, which adds a layer of complexity to his narratives. They appreciate the author's ability to make ancient history come alive, providing insights that are still valuable today. The book is seen as a foundational text that has influenced historical writing ever since.

Quick quotes

    "Of course, Herodotus was writing about things that happened at least a generation before he himself was alive"

    "Herodotus, the older of the two, has already turned his PhD into a fat book on the archaic Greek world and the Persian Wars"

    "Herodotus is an entertaining companion, and there are many funny moments as well as gripping narratives"

LitCritPop · 2019-04-01
comprehensive 4.00

The book is described as a monumental work that is both comprehensive and engaging, despite its length. The reviewer appreciates the depth of historical and ethnographic detail provided.

LitCritPop's review acknowledges the sheer size and scope of 'The Histories,' noting that it is a dense read but well worth the effort. The reviewer admires Herodotus's ability to blend history with ethnography, providing a rich tapestry of ancient cultures. They find the Greek-Persian theme compelling and appreciate the author's storytelling prowess, which keeps the reader engaged throughout the lengthy narrative.

Quick quotes

    "Herodotus The Histories is a brick of a book."

    "It's 750 pages of history and ethnography with a loose Greek- Persian theme to it."

    "Herodotus was writing about things that happened at least a generation before he himself was alive"

The Guardian · 2013-10-04
entertaining 4.50

The book is celebrated for its blend of entertainment and historical insight, offering a unique perspective on the clash of civilizations. It is praised for its engaging narrative and the author's ability to make ancient history accessible and intriguing.

The Guardian's review highlights how Herodotus's 'The Histories' masterfully combines entertainment with deep historical inquiry. The reviewer appreciates the way Herodotus weaves together stories and facts, making the ancient world feel vivid and immediate. They particularly enjoy the blend of myth and history, which adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative. The book is seen as a groundbreaking work that redefined the genre of history, making it both informative and captivating.

Quick quotes

    "Herodotus's Histories dealt with the clash of civilisations – east v west."

    "Yet the father of history is not only hugely entertaining but has an amazing ..."

    "It's a book that changed the meaning of 'history' forever"

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