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The Histories

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( 54,970 ratings, 1,818 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Histories by Herodotus, often considered the first work of history in Western literature, explores the Greco-Persian Wars and the cultural, geographical, and political landscapes of the ancient world. Herodotus is renowned for his storytelling, blending historical facts with myths and anthropological insights, offering a vivid account of various civilizations during the period. His work seeks to understand the causes and events of the wars, providing a panoramic view of the ancient world’s interconnectedness.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by ancient cultures and the origins of historical storytelling. You'll appreciate the captivating narratives and keen observations of Herodotus, often considered the "Father of History," as he explores the events, customs, and personalities of the Greek and Persian worlds. This work offers a rich tapestry of anecdotes and insights for anyone interested in the intertwining of myth and history.

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The Histories of Herodotus, completed in the second half of the 5th century BC, is generally regarded as the first work of history and the first great masterpiece of non-fiction writing. This book offers a translation of Herodotus' Histories.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

One of the great books in Western history and the very first work of non-fiction, in Tom Holland's compelling new translation.

The Histories of Herodotus, completed in the second half of the 5th century BC, is generally regarded as the first work of history and the first great masterpiece of non-fiction writing. Joined here are the sheer drama of Herodotus' narrative of the Persian invasions of Greece, and the endless curiosityβ€”turning now to cannabis, now to the Pyramidsβ€”which make his book the source of so much of our knowledge of the ancient world.

This absorbing new translation, by one of Britain's most admired young historians, allows all the drama and mysteriousness of this great book to be fully appreciated by modern readers.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Herodotus's The Histories, translated by Tom Holland, is praised for its energising, clear, and engaging narrative. It's considered the best English translation in the last fifty years, offering a storytelling approach that captivates readers with its wit and erudition. Holland's passion for the text shines through, adding a lively and dramatic flair that enhances this classic work.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140455397

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 25 September 2014

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Illustration: 13 maps

Contributors:

  • Introduction by Paul Cartledge
  • Translated by Tom Holland
  • Notes by Paul Cartledge

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 38.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 601g

Pages: 880

About the Author

Tom Holland is the best-selling author of Rubicon, which won the Hessell-Tiltman Prize for History and was shortlisted for the Samuel Johnson Prize, Persian Fire, Millenium and most recently In the Shadow of the Sword. His translation of Herodotus's Histories was published by Penguin Classics in 2013.

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