
Histories (Herodotus)
"Histories," written by Herodotus in the 5th century BCE, is often regarded as the first work of history in Western literature. It chronicles the Greco-Persian Wars and explores the cultures, customs, and events of various peoples, primarily the Greeks and Persians. Herodotus combines factual accounts with storytelling, providing both historical narratives and insights into human nature. His work emphasizes the importance of inquiry and evidence, seeking to explain how and why events occurred. While some of his tales blend fact and myth, "Histories" remains a foundational text for understanding historical methodology and the pursuit of knowledge about the past.