Content Aspects

Understand the interpretation of history given by Herodotus, where he combines stories, facts, eyewitness reports, and his thoughts to form a narrative.
Familiarise with the major events that shaped Greek and Persian history, such as wars, political turmoil, and cultural exchanges.
Engage with the story of Cyrus the Great and his conquest of kingdoms, along with lessons learnt through his encounters.

Enrich understanding of daily life and customs in ancient Lydia, Persia, and Greece.
Learn about various occupations such as traders, soldiers, priests and their positions in the society of the time.
Comprehend the gender roles and the position of women in these ancient societies.

Delve into the values that directed social behaviour in these ancient civilisations, such as hospitality, the principle of retribution and oracles.
Understand the concept of hubris in ancient Greek society, as seen in multiple narrative threads.
Appreciate the concept of kairos and how this idea about opportunistic timing shaped decision-making in military and political context.

Religion and Ancient Beliefs

Gain insights into the religious practices and beliefs prevalent at the time, such as the Greek Pantheon and the Persian religion of Zoroastrianism.
Highlight the vital role of oracles, omens, and prophetic dreams in these societies and their influence on decisions at both personal and state level.
Understand the importance of rituals and ceremonies, like sacrifices and burials, which reflected the cultural beliefs of the time.

Recognise the longevity and influence of Herodotus’s writings on subsequent historians, narrative storytelling and our understanding of ancient history.
Understand the impact of Herodotus’ depiction of warfare and politics on later works of historical analysis and literature.
Acknowledge Herodotus’ influence on the study of ethnography, culture, and societal norms.