The Histories

Interesting Facts

• Herodotus is considered the «father of history» because his work is one of the earliest known historical investigations, where he sought to systematically and critically examine past events.
• Herodotus's book covers a wide range of topics, including geography, ethnography, politics, and wars, making it an important source of information about the ancient world.
• One of the central events described in the book is the Greco-Persian Wars, where Herodotus provides detailed accounts of the battles of Marathon, Thermopylae, and Salamis.
• Herodotus pays great attention to the cultural and religious customs of various peoples he encountered, including Egyptians, Persians, and Scythians.
• Although some of his stories may seem mythological or exaggerated, they provide valuable insights into the worldview and beliefs of ancient peoples.
• Herodotus often uses the method of oral testimony, gathering accounts from eyewitnesses and participants, which makes his work unique for its time.
• Herodotus's book is also known for its descriptions of exotic animals and plants, such as hippopotamuses and phoenixes, reflecting his interest in natural history.