On the Greek Historians

presenting themselves in life, it might gradually arrive at
the knowledge of the arts and sciences that the ancient
masters handed down. The case of history is far different.
For if history were once entirely erased,
it could no more be restored by human effort
than a person’s life could now return through
anyone’s study. Therefore, while the Socratic writings
original: "Socraticis chartis." This refers to the philosophical works of the school of Socrates, such as those by Plato, which deal with universal truths of logic and ethics.
should always retain their own honor, it is especially
fitting to pray that those who recorded historical deeds
original: "res gestas." A standard Latin term for "history," literally meaning "things that have been done."
in writing should flourish and live forever.

Therefore, I believed I would serve the public
interest well if I turned my attention to
illustrating history at this time. Until now,
my labor has been spent mainly on this goal:
not only to treat Greek and Latin historians,
but also to organize the deeds of every age.
Because I have not yet brought those works to
completion original: "ad umbilicum perduxi." This classical idiom means to finish a book, referring to the "umbilicus" or central stick of a papyrus scroll.,
it seemed appropriate to release this small book,
On the Nature of History and the Rules for Writing It,
beforehand.

For although Pliny Gaius Plinius Caecilius Secundus, known as Pliny the Younger, was a Roman author who wrote extensively on the value of literature.
said very truly that history is pleasing no matter how it is written,
nonetheless, we should measure things by public benefit
rather than just pleasure. We cannot be
satisfied with a small advantage when we can
enjoy a great one. Certainly, one cannot deny that