Histories

Conflicting accounts of how Hellenes and Persians came to quarrel open Herodotus's inquiry into the ancient world. He sets out to preserve notable deeds and explain the causes of war, comparing stories told by different peoples before turning to events he considers better established. Croesus, the Lydian ruler, enters this account through the tribute he demands from some communities and the friendships he makes with others. Behind these changes of power lies the observation that the fortunes of cities rise and fall.

Royal households, succession disputes and overseas settlements also shape the account. Disappointed in his hopes of gaining a throne, Dorieos gathers followers and seeks a colony in Libya, then later turns to Sicily. Herodotus records competing local versions of his involvement in a conflict between Sybaris and Croton. Readers interested in ancient history can follow both the events being recounted and the author's care in distinguishing one reported account from another.