The Language of Classical Literature41 Speech, Narrative, and Authority in Herodotus’ Histories

This book argues that Herodotus establishes his authority as a historiographer by incorporating a diverse range of speeches throughout the Histories, which enhances reader engagement and bolsters the credibility of the work and, by extension, its author. This book contends that Herodotus asserts his authority as a historiographer by integrating a wide array of speeches throughout the Histories. These include not only the words he attributes to his characters but also the testimony he assigns to his informants. Both types of speeches serve to engage the reader, thereby enhancing the credibility of the text, and, by extension, its author. In addition to offering a comprehensive analysis of the formal features of Herodotus’ speeches, the book examines key episodes, ranging from Croesus’ dialogue with Solon on the nature of true prosperity to Xerxes’ proclamation of his decision to invade Greece.