Herodotus, succeeding Homer, builds his historical edifice on archaic Ionian foundations. Within his narrative, he seeks dramatic condensation; like another Aeschylus, he perceives the tragedy in the destinies of nations.

He regards the Persian Wars as the climax of the conflict between Asia and Europe and emphasizes the utmost significance of the Greeks' victory at a time when the centers of civilization were threatened by Persian expansionism.

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

Excerpt from the text on the back cover of the edition.