How can scholars effectively integrate non-historical literary sources into the reconstruction of ancient Greek history? Christopher Pelling, a distinguished scholar of classical literature and history, examines the methodological challenges and opportunities inherent in using diverse textual evidence. By analyzing the intersection of rhetoric, genre, and historical fact, he provides a framework for evaluating the reliability and utility of non-historical texts in historical inquiry.

Experts in the field of classical studies recognize this work as a significant contribution to the study of historiography and the interpretation of ancient sources. Scholars frequently cite Pelling's nuanced approach as a foundational reference for students and researchers navigating the complexities of Greek historical evidence.