Library, Books 16-20: Philip II, Alexander the Great, and the Successors

Diodorus of Sicily's history, translated by Robin Waterfield, covers a vital period in European history, including the eastern conquests of Alexander the Great and the turbulent years following his death. Despite his importance, Diodorus is a neglected historian, and this is the first English translation of any of his books in over fifty years. The introduction places Diodorus in his context in first-century-BCE Rome and assesses his strengths and weaknesses as a historian.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 624 pages
Publication date: 04 July 2019
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Philip, with his unwavering determination and resourcefulness, embarked on a remarkable journey to transform his kingdom into the most formidable force in Europe. Despite starting with meagre resources, he possessed an indomitable spirit and a strategic mind that propelled him forward.

The Greek historian Diodorus of Sicily stands as one of our most invaluable sources from ancient times. His extensive history, spanning forty volumes, aimed to chronicle events from mythical times to 60 BCE. Remarkably, fifteen of The Library's forty books have survived, providing a glimpse into this rich tapestry of European history.

This new translation by Robin Waterfield, covering books 16 to 20, delves into a crucial period in European history. Book 16, dedicated to Philip, is essential in understanding the remarkable career of this great king. Without it, our knowledge of his achievements would be significantly limited. Book 17, the earliest surviving account by over a hundred years, sheds light on the world-changing eastern conquests of Alexander the Great, Philip's son. Books 18 to 20 serve as our sole source of information on the turbulent twenty years following Alexander's death and the violent path pursued by Agathocles of Syracuse.

However, Diodorus, despite his immense importance, remains a neglected historian. Over fifty years have passed since the last English translation of any of these books. In his introduction, Robin Waterfield places Diodorus in the context of first-century-BCE Rome, providing a comprehensive description of his historical intentions and assessing his strengths and weaknesses as a historian. The book is accompanied by extensive explanatory notes, enriching the reader's understanding of this gripping and sensational period of history.

This translation serves as a unique resource for historians and students alike, offering a deeper appreciation of the complexities and events that shaped Europe during this pivotal era. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Diodorus and his contribution to our understanding of ancient history.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 129 x 195 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198759881