The Essential Greek Historians

Burstein's The Essential Greek Historians is a collection of texts that explore the development of historiography in the ancient Greek world. It includes familiar favorites like Herodotus and Thucydides, as well as sources such as The Parian Marble and Memnon's History of Heracleia, providing a broader and richer view of the ways in which Greeks engaged with history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 18 July 2022
Publisher: Hackett Publishing Co, Inc

Burstein's The Essential Greek Historians is a remarkable compilation of texts that provide a comprehensive account of the evolution of historiography in the ancient Greek world. Each text is presented in an engaging and accessible translation, accompanied by an insightful introduction that delves into the motivations behind its composition, the profound impact it had on the development of historiography as a literary genre, and the historical and cultural context in which its author conceived and wrote. This collection encompasses not only well-known classics such as Herodotus and Thucydides but also lesser-known sources such as The Parian Marble and Memnon's History of Heracleia, which offer a broader and more nuanced perspective on the ways in which Greeks approached history. In a single concise volume, Burstein has crafted an indispensable introduction to the historical thought of the ancient Greeks, a must-have for any student engaged in the study of Greek historiography.

The introduction to this collection offers valuable insights into the historical context and development of historiography in ancient Greece. It explores the various factors that influenced the writing of history, including political, social, and cultural influences. The introduction also discusses the different approaches to history taken by different Greek historians, such as the use of narrative, eyewitness accounts, and philosophical analysis.

One of the key strengths of Burstein's collection is its diverse range of texts. The authors represented in this collection include some of the most influential Greek historians of the ancient world, such as Herodotus, Thucydides, Xenophon, Aristotle, Polybius, and Plutarch. Each text is presented in its original language, allowing readers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the Greek language.

The translations provided in this collection are of high quality and are faithful to the original text. Burstein has done an excellent job in preserving the essence of each author's work while making it accessible to a broader audience. The introduction also includes helpful maps and illustrations that enhance the reader's understanding of the historical context and events described in the texts.

In conclusion, Burstein's The Essential Greek Historians is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the study of ancient Greek history. The collection offers a comprehensive introduction to the historical thought of the ancient Greeks, presented in an engaging and accessible format. The diverse range of texts and the high-quality translations make this collection an indispensable tool for students, scholars, and anyone with an interest in the ancient world.

Weight: 385g
Dimension: 228 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781647920401