(Referring to a set text e.g. Herodotus Bk. 2) Is Herodotus truly the 'Father of History', or is he the 'Father of Lies'? Use examples from the set text you have studied or other material outside this.

It is important to realise that Herodotus is unique in his approach to History. The word 'history' literally means 'enquiry', coming from the Greek 'ἱστορια', and all Herodotus does is therefore enquiring. Indeed, at the start of his work, he says very clearly that he is merely reporting what was said to him ('λεγειν τα λεγομενα') and is passing no judgement on it whatsoever in terms of its credibility. Therefore, with this being established, it is impossible to call Herodotus the 'Father of Lies' since he never claims to be telling the truth.

DM
Answered by Darius M. Classical Greek tutor

1028 Views

See similar Classical Greek A Level tutors

Related Classical Greek A Level answers

All answers ▸

I was wondering if there’s any advice that you might have for an essay like this... the title I think I’m going to write on is ‘Is love a narrative force to be reckoned with in epic? Discuss with examples from Greek and/or Lati


How was Sophism portrayed in contemporary Greek literature?


What are the principal parts of the verb γιγνωσκω?


What is the Second Sophistic?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences