Herodotus, succeeding Homer, builds his historical edifice on archaic Ionian foundations.

Within his narrative, he seeks dramatic compression; like another Aeschylus, he sees the tragedy in the fates of nations. He considers the Persian Wars the culmination of the conflict between Asia and Europe, emphasizing the utmost importance of the Greek victory at a time when the centers of culture were under threat from Persian expansionism.

Through his personal exploration, he seeks the causes of human behavior. Humanity is at the center of his work, which is why his historical composition does not ignore the folklore of the peoples. And if he succumbs to their mythological traditions, it is because he senses that myth also carries history.

[Excerpt from the text on the back cover of the edition]