Dionysius of Halicarnassus
Dionysius of Halicarnassus was a prominent Greek historian and teacher of rhetoric who flourished in Rome during the first century BCE, particularly under the rule of Caesar Augustus. After relocating to Rome, he dedicated approximately twenty-two years to studying Latin language and literature, which informed his historical writings. His most significant contribution is the twenty-volume work titled *Rhomaikes archaiologias* (The Roman Antiquities), which chronicles Roman history from its mythical origins up to the First Punic War, although only ten volumes of this extensive work survive today. Dionysius aimed to promote a positive view of Roman governance, striving to reconcile the Greek perspective with Roman rule by highlighting the admirable qualities of historical Roman leaders. Living a privileged life at the imperial court, he became one of the leading intellectuals of his time. In addition to his historical writings, Dionysius also produced several essays on rhetoric, although many of his works have unfortunately been lost. His accounts of the early Roman Republic are considered invaluable, alongside those of his contemporary, Livy, providing essential insights into that era.
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Dionysius of Halicarnassus
Historian
- Born: Between 78 and 54 b.c.e.
- Birthplace: Halicarnassus, Asia Minor
- Died: 7 b.c.e.
- Place of death: Rome, Italy
Biography
Dionysius of Halicarnassus, a Greek historian and teacher of rhetoric, prospered during the reign of Caesar Augustus after he moved to Rome in the first century b.c.e.. Dionysius studied Latin language and literature in Rome for some twenty-two years, during which time he prepared materials and notes for his writing. In order to support himself, Dionysius taught classes in rhetoric.
Dionysius most noted work was a twenty-volume history of Rome titled Rhomaikes archaiologias (7 b.c.e.; The Roman Antiquities of Dionysius Halicarnassenis,1758). This work documented Roman history from the mythical period to the beginning of the First Punic War in the third century b.c.e.. Only ten of the twenty volumes are extant.
Dionysius believed history was the philosophy of teaching by example. His main objective for writing about Roman history was to reconcile the Greeks to Roman government rule. He accomplished his goal by depicting the good qualities of Rome’s historical rulers in his writings rather than lamenting their character flaws.
Under the stewardship of Caesar Augustus, Dionysius lived a lavish court life and became one of the eminent scholars of his era. His histories of the early Roman republic are the only definitive accounts from that time period that still exist today other than those of his contemporary, the historian Livy. Dionysius also authored several works about rhetoric, including essays on rhetorical theory and several lost treatises on language and orations.