Divinity and History The Religion of Herodotus [Paperback]

This book is a study of the religious beliefs of the ancient Greek historian Herodotus--his beliefs in divine retribution, in oracles and divination, in miracles or in fate. It seeks to show not only how such beliefs were central to his work, but also how they were compatible with lived experience.

1. Introduction: Divinity and History
2. Solon and Human Fortune
3. Miracles and the Miraculous
4. Divine Retribution
5. Oracles and Divination
6. The Unity and Multiplicity of the Divine
7. The Limits of Knowledge and Inquiry
8. Foreign Gods and Foreign Religion
9. Fate and Human Responsibility
10. Epilogue

This is a definitive work on Herodotus and Herodotean religion--balanced, learned, and wise. It should be an exemplar for all future discussions of ancient attitudes toward the divine, and the first chapter should be required reading for all students of Herodotus. It is almost as pleasurable and rewarding to read as Herodotus himself. --Choice

An outstanding book of erudition, indispensable to all scholars interested in Herodotus. --History

Thomas Harrison is Lecturer in Ancient History, the University of St Andrews