Polybius’ ‘Histories’ is a significant piece of literature that serves as a comprehensive historical account of the Mediterranean world from 264 to 146 BC. Written in a precise and informative style, Polybius combines personal observation with thorough research to provide readers with a detailed narrative of the events and political developments of the time. His work is considered a prime example of ancient historical writing, as it combines both factual reporting and insightful analysis of the causes and consequences of historical events. Polybius’ ‘Histories’ remains an essential source for understanding the complexities of ancient civilizations and their interactions. Polybius himself was a Greek historian and political observer who lived during the Hellenistic period. His firsthand experiences of the tumultuous political climate of his time, including the rise of the Roman Empire, influenced his decision to write ‘Histories’ as a way to make sense of the events unfolding around him. His unique perspective and attention to detail make his work highly regarded by historians and scholars. For readers interested in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the ancient Mediterranean world and the political dynamics that shaped it, Polybius’ ‘Histories’ is a must-read. This insightful and well-researched account offers valuable insights into the political, social, and military history of the time, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in ancient history.
Sobre el autor
Polybius (circa 200-118 BCE) was a Greek historian of the Hellenistic period noted for his work ‘Histories’, an ambitious narrative of the rise of Rome which remains an invaluable source of the period. Son to the prominent politician Lycortas, he was linked to the Achaean League, a political entity embodying Hellenism in his native Peloponnese. Due to this association, he was one of the one thousand Achaean hostages taken to Rome after the Seleucid War, affording him the opportunity to immerse himself in Roman culture and politics. His ‘Histories’, originally composed in forty books of which only the first five survive in entirety, encompassed the years 220 to 167 BCE, a period characterized by Rome’s aggressive expansion and the degradation of Hellenistic kingdoms. Polybius’s historiography is distinctly pragmatic; he aspired to provide an analysis of historical causality and believed in the practical application of history. His inquiry into the Roman constitution and his concept of ‘anacyclosis’—the cycle of political evolution—underscored his analytical approach. Polybius is lauded for his firsthand knowledge of political affairs, rigorous cross-examination of sources, and the didactic nature of his literary composition, aiming to educate statesmen. While his influence waned in antiquity, Renaissance scholars revived interest in his work, cementing his legacy as an essential figure in historiography.
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