The distinction between ancient and modern modes of historical thought is characterized by the
growing complexity of the discipline of history in modernity. Consequently the epistemological
and methodological standard of ancient historiography is typically held as inferior against the
modern ideal. This book serves to address this apparent deficit. Its scope is three-fold.
Firstly it aims at encountering ancient modes of historical and historiographical thought
within the province of their own horizon. Secondly this book considers the possibility of a
dialogue between ancient and modern philosophies of history concerning the influence of ancient
historical thought on the development of modern philosophy of history and the utility of modern
philosophy of history in the interpretation of ancient historiography. Thirdly this book
explores the continuities and discontinuities in historical method and thought from antiquity
to modernity. Ultimately this volume demonstrates the necessity of re-evaluating our
assumptions about the relation of ancient and modern historical thought and lays the groundwork
for a more fruitful dialogue in the future.
