Dramatic Reckoning of the Numeric Kind: Herodotus’ Extended Calculations*

Herodotus presents several extended calculations that require converting from one measuring system to another and that exhibit similarities in their presentation and effect. Complex calculations figure early in the careers of kings, except for Herodotus’ measurement of the road to Sardis before the Athenian intervention. Herodotus’ use of the device resembles Solon’s calculation for Croesus—as a warning—and contrasts with Aristagoras’ strategy of minimizing danger. The cautionary narrative device, used in a way that connects the Athenians with kings, points to one message of the History as being a warning to Herodotus’ audience about the dangers of imperialism.