This book investigates the evolution of Western historiography from its classical roots to the Enlightenment. Denys Hay, a distinguished historian, examines the methods, biases, and philosophical underpinnings of historians across a millennium, tracing the development of historical writing as a discipline. The work analyzes how different eras perceived and recorded their past, highlighting the intellectual currents that shaped historical inquiry.

This work is recognized as a foundational text in the study of historiography, offering a comprehensive survey of Western historical thought. Scholars have noted its meticulous research and clear exposition of complex intellectual developments. The book provides essential context for understanding the trajectory of historical scholarship and its engagement with the past.