Histories

What are the main themes of the Histories? How does Herodotus use moralizing anecdotes to elaborate some of these themes?

Herodotus states that he undertook his inquiry “so that human achievements may not be forgotten in time, and great and marvelous deeds—some displayed by Greeks, some by barbarians—may not be without their glory, and especially to show why the two peoples fought with each other” (3). The Histories contain an enormous mass of material, incorporating many digressions within the main historical narrative of the conflict between the Greeks and the Persians. How does the structure of the book convey Herodotus’ intended aim? Explain if, and how, Herodotus’ digressions serve that purpose.

What are the contributing factors, in Herodotus’ account, that led to the great Greco-Persian conflict of 490-479 BCE? Consider the actions of the mainland and Asiatic Greeks, as well as the motivations of the Persian emperors Darius and Xerxes, in analyzing the causes of the conflict.

How does Herodotus distinguish between Greek and Persian culture, government, ethics, and military character, and how do these differences relate to the prosecution and outcome of the war between the two nations? How are the main themes of the text related to these distinctions?

Herodotus frequently presents speeches by main characters, employing direct quotation. How does he use these speeches, and what are their effects? Consider the occasion of the speech, the audience to whom it is addressed, as well as the motivations, stated or unstated, of the speaker. (In many instances, Herodotus likely did not have access to transcripts, oral or written, of these addresses and fabricated many of the occasions as well as the content of the speeches). How do such speeches engage with the main themes of the Histories?

Herodotus frequently presents speeches by main characters, employing direct quotation. How does he use these speeches, and what are their effects? Consider the occasion of the speech, the audience to whom it is addressed, as well as the motivations, stated or unstated, of the speaker. (In many instances, Herodotus likely did not have access to transcripts, oral or written, of these addresses and fabricated many of the occasions as well as the content of the speeches). How do such speeches engage with the main themes of the Histories?

In the first four Books of the Histories, Herodotus describes the peoples and lands of virtually the whole world (as known to the ancient Greeks) in his discussion of the growth of the Persian Empire. Summarize the map of the world he offers to his audience. Describe its main geographical divisions and structure, as well as the sources for his information. What role do mythical elements play in his sketch of the geography and peoples of the world?

Is Herodotus’ account of Greek history politically biased? If so, how is this bias expressed? Identify and analyze evidence supporting your conclusion.