Famous Greek Historians

Herodotus was an ancient Greek historian and geographer known for writing the Histories, detailing the Greco-Persian Wars. Regarded as "The Father of History," he conducted systematic investigations of historical events. His work covers prominent kings and famous battles while also providing cultural, ethnographical, geographical, and historiographical backgrounds. Despite criticism for including legends and fanciful accounts, Herodotus defended his reporting as based on what he saw and was told. Much of his work has been validated by modern historians and archaeologists.

Xenophon of Athens was a renowned Greek military leader, philosopher, and historian. He played a crucial role as a leader of the Greek mercenaries, the Ten Thousand, during their retreat following Cyrus's failed attempt to seize the Achaemenid Empire. Xenophon established logistical precedents and innovative military strategies, as showcased in his writings like Anabasis and Cyropaedia. His association with Sparta, service under Spartan commanders, and friendship with King Agesilaus II further solidified his reputation as a significant figure in ancient Greek history and philosophy.

Plutarch was a Greek Middle Platonist philosopher, historian, biographer, essayist, and priest at the Temple of Apollo in Delphi. He is best known for his works such as Parallel Lives, a collection of biographies of notable Greeks and Romans, and Moralia, a compilation of essays and speeches. Upon possibly becoming a Roman citizen, he may have been named Lucius Mestrius Plutarchus. His professional life was dedicated to philosophical pursuits, historical writing, biographical studies, and religious responsibilities at the Temple of Apollo.

Strabo was a Greek geographer, philosopher, and historian who lived during the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire. His renowned work, Geographica, provided detailed accounts of various regions and their inhabitants known at that time. Apart from his geographical contributions, Strabo also wrote historical works, although only fragments and quotations of these have survived in the writings of others. Through his writings, Strabo significantly contributed to the understanding of ancient geography and history, leaving a lasting impact on the field.

Thucydides was an Athenian historian and general known for his work "History of the Peloponnesian War," detailing the conflict between Sparta and Athens. Considered the father of "scientific history," he emphasized impartiality, evidence-gathering, and analysis of cause and effect without reference to divine intervention. Thucydides is also credited with founding the school of political realism, highlighting the role of fear and self-interest in political behavior. His works, including the Melian dialogue and Pericles' Funeral Oration, remain influential in international relations theory and political philosophy.

Anna Comnena was a Byzantine Greek princess and historian known for her work, the Alexiad, which is a significant primary source of Byzantine history and the early Crusades. She was well-educated in various fields, including literature, philosophy, and medicine. Anna played a crucial role in the politics of her time, attempting to depose her brother as emperor in favor of her husband. Following a failed usurpation, she was exiled to a monastery, where she spent the rest of her life writing the Alexiad.

Polybius, a Greek historian of the middle Hellenistic period, is renowned for his work "The Histories," which details the rise of Rome in the Mediterranean during the third and second centuries BC. His analysis of constitutional change, the mixed constitution, and the separation of powers in government influenced notable works such as Montesquieu's "The Spirit of the Laws" and John Locke's "Two Treatises of Government," as well as the framers of the United States Constitution. Polybius's expertise and influence extended to his close friendship and mentorship of Scipio Africanus the Younger.

Megasthenes was an ancient Greek historian, diplomat, ethnographer, and explorer in the Hellenistic period. He is known for his book Indica, which provided a detailed description of India. Considered the first person from the Western world to document India, his work has been reconstructed from fragments found in later authors. Megasthenes' professional life was dedicated to studying and documenting the culture, society, and geography of India, making significant contributions to the understanding of the region during his time.

Arrian of Nicomedia, also known as Lucius Flavius Arrianus, was a prominent Greek historian, military commander, and philosopher during the Roman period. His most renowned work, The Anabasis of Alexander, is highly regarded as the best source on the campaigns of Alexander the Great. Arrian's professional life was marked by his exceptional contributions to historical scholarship, military leadership, and philosophical discourse. Scholars have long favored his writings over other primary sources, although modern studies have prompted reassessment of his methodologies.

Dionysius of Halicarnassus was a Greek historian and rhetoric teacher thriving under Emperor Augustus. His atticistic literary style emulated Classical Attic Greek. He is renowned for his work "Roman Antiquities," detailing Rome's history until the First Punic War. Although only the first nine out of twenty books have survived, his advocacy for promoting paideia in education through classical knowledge left a lasting impact on the Greek elite's identity for centuries.

Hecataeus of Miletus was an influential Greek historian and geographer who lived during the 6th and 5th centuries BC. He is known for his pioneering work in recording historical events and geographical knowledge, contributing significantly to the development of these fields. Hecataeus traveled extensively, gathering information about different regions and cultures, which he incorporated into his writings. His works were notable for their detailed descriptions of lands, people, and customs, establishing him as a respected figure in ancient Greek scholarship.

Appian of Alexandria was a Greek historian with Roman citizenship who held senior offices in the province of Aegyptus before moving to Rome around 120 AD. He practiced as an advocate, pleading cases before the emperors and was eventually appointed to the office of procurator, likely in Egypt. Appian's principal work, "Roman History," written in Greek, provides valuable insights into various peoples and countries up to their incorporation into the Roman Empire. His surviving works, including "The Civil Wars" and "The Foreign Wars," offer comprehensive descriptions of key periods and conflicts in Roman history.

Posidonius, a Greek polymath and philosopher from Apamea, Syria, was renowned for his vast knowledge and teachings in various fields. He studied Stoic philosophy in Athens before embarking on extensive travels for scientific research across Europe and Africa. Settling in Rhodes, he became a respected teacher attracting many scholars. Posidonius played a crucial role in spreading Stoicism to the Roman world through his writings and lectures. He delved into natural science, geography, astronomy, and mathematics, contributing valuable insights and exploring complex scientific concepts.

Sextus Julius Africanus was a Christian traveler and historian in the late 2nd and early 3rd centuries. He played a significant role in shaping the work of historians such as Eusebius and the Church Fathers, as well as influencing the Greek school of chroniclers. His professional life was characterized by his contributions to the field of Church history, establishing a legacy that continued through subsequent generations of writers and chroniclers.

Dio Chrysostom was a Greek orator and philosopher known for his political discourses. Exiled from Bithynia and Italy due to political disagreements, he led a nomadic existence for 14 years before returning to philosophy following Emperor Domitian's death. His writings featured speeches for Trajan and essays on slavery, showcasing his diverse intellectual pursuits. Despite his tumultuous political experiences, Dio Chrysostom's enduring legacy lies in his eloquent orations and philosophical insights that continue to be studied and revered to this day.

Quintus Curtius Rufus was a Roman historian of the 1st century, known for his work "Histories of Alexander the Great". Despite much of his writing being lost, his legacy endures through surviving manuscripts. Little is known about his personal life, leading to speculations about a potential hidden historical identity. Various theories exist regarding his true persona, but his reputation as a respected historian remains separate and well-established. Rufus' professional life revolves around his significant contribution to the understanding and documentation of the life of Alexander the Great.

Callisthenes of Olynthus was a Greek historian who had close ties to Aristotle and Alexander the Great. He served as Alexander's historian and publicist during the Asiatic expedition but later disagreed with the king's adoption of Persian culture. This led to his arrest and eventual death in prison after being implicated in a plot against Alexander. Throughout his career, Callisthenes authored multiple works on Greek history and a biography of Alexander the Great, showcasing his expertise in historical writing and scholarship.

Michael Psellos was a Byzantine Greek monk, writer, philosopher, historian, and music theorist. He served as a high-ranking courtier and advisor to several Byzantine emperors, influencing their power and decisions. Psellos advocated for the revival of Byzantine classical studies, which later impacted the Italian Renaissance. He interpreted Homeric literature and Platonic philosophy as integral to Christian doctrine. His works combined theology, philosophy, and psychology, with notable contributions including his Commentary on Plato’s Teachings on the Origin of the Soul and the Chronographia, a valuable historical source on the 11th century Byzantine Empire.

Apollodorus of Athens was a renowned Greek scholar, historian, and grammarian. He studied under notable figures such as Diogenes of Babylon, Panaetius the Stoic, and the grammarian Aristarchus of Samothrace. Alongside his contemporary Dionysius Thrax, he acquired a diverse education that shaped his intellectual pursuits. Leaving Alexandria around 146 BC, he likely relocated to Pergamon before establishing himself in Athens. His professional life was marked by a commitment to scholarship, historical research, and grammatical studies, leaving a lasting impact on the academic world.

John Skylitzes was a Byzantine historian and bureaucrat known for his work in documenting the history of the Byzantine Empire. He held a prominent position in the imperial administration and had access to official sources, enabling him to compile the historical events of his time. Skylitzes's professional life was focused on chronicling the reigns of Byzantine emperors and capturing the political and military developments of the era. His work, particularly the Madrid Skylitzes manuscript, remains a valuable resource for scholars studying Byzantine history.

Agathias Scholasticus was a Greek poet and historian renowned for his work during the reign of Roman emperor Justinian I. He served as the principal historian from 552 to 558, providing valuable insights into this period. Agathias's writings are highly regarded for their detailed accounts and vivid descriptions, offering a valuable perspective on the political and social dynamics of the time. Through his work, Agathias made significant contributions to the understanding of the historical events and cultural nuances of the era.

Ephorus of Cyme was an esteemed ancient Greek historian active in the 4th century BC. Renowned for his comprehensive universal history, Ephorus made significant contributions to the field of historiography. His work encompassed a wide range of historical events and civilizations, aiming to provide a holistic understanding of the past. Ephorus's writings were highly regarded in antiquity for their depth and breadth, establishing him as a prominent figure in the study and documentation of history during his time.

Theopompus was a prominent figure in ancient Greece, known for his expertise in history and rhetoric. As a student of the renowned teacher Isocrates, he honed his skills and knowledge in these fields. Theopompus emerged as a distinguished historian and rhetorician, contributing significantly to the intellectual and literary circles of his time. His works were highly regarded for their insightful analysis and engaging storytelling, solidifying his reputation as a respected scholar and writer in the ancient Greek world.

Laonikos Chalkokondyles, a Byzantine Greek historian from Athens, is known for his work "Demonstrations of Histories" which details the final 150 years of the Byzantine Empire. He was part of an intellectual circle in Byzantine Mistra and studied under Platonist philosopher Pletho. Laonikos adopted Herodotus as a historiographical model and focused on the clashes between Ottomans and Byzantines. His writings, including the "Apodeixis," were widely circulated in Latin and French translations, shaping Western perceptions of the Ottoman Empire.

Eunapius was a prominent Greek sophist, rhetorician, and historian hailing from Sardis in Lydia, Asia Minor. His notable work, Lives of Philosophers and Sophists, showcases biographies of 24 distinguished philosophers and sophists. Known for his eloquence and scholarly pursuits, Eunapius made significant contributions to the understanding of ancient Greek philosophy and rhetoric. His writings provide valuable insights into the lives and teachings of influential figures in the intellectual circles of his time, cementing his legacy as a respected historian and chronicler of philosophical thought.

Hellanicus of Lesbos was an ancient Greek logographer known for his prolific works in chronology, geography, and history during the 5th century BC. He transcended traditional boundaries by emphasizing local traditions over widely accepted myths, influencing Athenian historiography significantly. Hellanicus aimed to establish a scientific chronology using various sources like priestly records and genealogies. He authored around thirty works, including the first mention of Rome's legendary founding by the Trojans and proposing the Pelasgians as the origin of the Etruscans. His writings were highly influential, preserved through citations by later authors.

Eudemus of Rhodes was an ancient Greek philosopher known as the first historian of science. As one of Aristotle's key pupils, he played a significant role in editing and organizing his teacher's works to enhance their accessibility. Eudemus' contributions to the field of science and philosophy, alongside his nephew Pasicles, who also edited Aristotle's writings, have had a lasting impact on the development and understanding of these disciplines. His dedication to preserving and disseminating Aristotle's teachings has solidified his reputation as a crucial figure in the history of philosophy.

Timaeus, a Greek historian, faced exile from Sicily by tyrant Agathocles, leading him to settle in Athens. In Athens, he dedicated himself to scholarly pursuits, primarily focused on historical writings. He is most renowned for his extensive work, the 38-part Histories, which provided valuable insights into various events and cultures. Additionally, Timaeus contributed significantly to the field of chronology by creating a detailed list of Olympic Games winners, thereby establishing a method of dating based on these ancient sporting events.

Demetrios Vikelas was a Greek businessman turned writer who achieved success through literary pursuits after relocating to Paris. His works, including novels, short stories, and essays, garnered him a distinguished reputation. Vikelas was selected to represent Greece in the congress that led to the re-establishment of the Olympic Games and served as the first president of the International Olympic Committee. He presided over the organization of the 1896 Athens Games before retiring and remaining in Athens until his passing in 1908.

Michael Critobulus was a notable Greek politician, historian, and scholar known for his significant contributions to documenting the history of the Ottoman conquest of the Byzantine Empire. His most renowned work is a detailed account of the first decade of Turkish rule in Constantinople under Sultan Mehmet II. Critobulus's writings serve as crucial sources for understanding the Fall of Constantinople and its aftermath, shedding light on the political and social dynamics during this period of transition in the Byzantine Empire.

Publius Herennius Dexippus was a Greek historian, statesman, and general known for his roles as an archon basileus and eponymous in Athens. He came from a hereditary line of priests in the Eleusinian family of the Kerykes. Dexippus is recognized for his significant contributions in historical records, showcasing his expertise in military affairs and political leadership. His professional life was marked by his service in various prestigious positions in Athens, highlighting his dedication to public service and his commitment to preserving historical events for future generations.

George Pachymeres was a prominent figure in the Byzantine Empire, known for his diverse contributions in various fields. As a historian, he chronicled significant events of his time, shedding light on political and cultural developments. Pachymeres also delved into philosophy, exploring complex ideas and engaging in intellectual discourse. Additionally, he made notable contributions to music theory and engaged in miscellaneous writing activities. Through his work, Pachymeres left a lasting impact on Byzantine scholarship and intellectual thought.

John Kinnamos, also known as Joannes Kinnamos, was a Byzantine historian and imperial secretary to Emperor Manuel I. He accompanied the emperor on his campaigns in Europe and Asia Minor and authored a historical work covering the years 1118-1176. Kinnamos's writing style was simple and straightforward, influenced by Xenophon. He praised the Byzantine Empire's superiority over other powers and criticized the papacy. While his work abruptly ends, it is believed to have continued until Manuel's death. Kinnamos is considered one of the best European historians of his time.

Nikephoros Kallistos Xanthopoulos was a prominent Greek ecclesiastical historian and writer during the late Byzantine Empire. His most renowned work, the Ecclesiastica historia, is a comprehensive source on early Christianity, doctrinal disputes, hagiography, liturgy, and legends of the Byzantine era. Xanthopoulos's contributions have greatly enriched our understanding of primitive Christianity and its various aspects. His scholarly endeavors have left a lasting impact on the study of Byzantine culture, making him a significant figure in the field of ecclesiastical history.

Hesychius of Miletus was a Greek chronicler and biographer known as Hesychios the Illustrious. He lived in Constantinople during the reign of Justinian in the 6th century AD. His writings primarily focused on pagan Greek culture, with his religious beliefs remaining a subject of scholarly debate. He was praised by Photius for his writing style and historical accuracy. Hesychius is attributed to three major works, including an anonymous Vita Aristotelis. Several editions of his works have been published, highlighting his significance as a historian.

Agatharchides of Cnidus was a prominent Greek historian and geographer in the 2nd century BC. Known for his extensive travels, he documented various regions from the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean. His detailed accounts of geography, ethnography, and history provided valuable insights into the ancient world. Agatharchides's works were highly regarded for their accuracy and thoroughness, making him a respected figure among scholars of his time. His contributions significantly influenced the understanding of geography and history during the Hellenistic period.

Michael Glycas, a Byzantine theologian and historian, hailed from Corfu, Greece. His career took a tumultuous turn when he was accused of plotting against Emperor Manuel I Komnenos. Despite being partially blinded and imprisoned, Glycas persevered and continued to write prolifically. Notably, he authored the renowned works "Verses from Prison" and a significant historical chronicle. Glycas’ dedication to scholarship and writing remained unwavering even in the face of adversity, solidifying his legacy as a respected figure in Byzantine intellectual circles.