Thucydides

Description: (Athenian Historian and General)

Thucydides was a 5th century BC Greek historian and a famous general who is often regarded as “the father of scientific history.” He wrote ‘History of the Peloponnesian War’ which recounts the struggles between Athens and Sparta in the 5th century BC. Even today, many experts believe that Thucydides' work was the first-ever recorded political and moral analysis of any nation’s war policies. He only gave accounts of wars that happened in his own time, unlike his predecessor Herodotus who also wrote about ancient Greek history. While writing about the wars, Thucydides had focused more on the testimonies of eyewitnesses. Being a general during the war also helped him write a first-person account of it, as he had been taking notes from the very beginning. Many historians have noted that although Thucydides tried to remain objective in his writing, he often wrote based on his personal judgment. For instance, in his work on the “Plague of Athens,” his account slowly develops into a story on moral corruption. According to modern historians, his writings on people like Pericles, Cleon and Nicias are hardly accurate. Nonetheless, his work ‘History of the Peloponnesian War’ is considered to be one of the greatest texts from antiquity.

Overview

Born In Greece
Parents Olorus
Children Timotheos

Did you know

What is Thucydides known for? Thucydides is known for being an ancient Greek historian and author of the "History of the Peloponnesian War."
When did Thucydides live? Thucydides lived during the 5th century BCE in ancient Greece.
What is the main theme of Thucydides' writings? Thucydides focused on the themes of power, politics, human nature, and the impact of war on society in his historical works.
How did Thucydides influence modern historiography? Thucydides' emphasis on objectivity, critical analysis of sources, and rational explanations has had a lasting impact on the study of history and historiography.
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