"This book approaches the shaping of history from three different angles. It examines the way in which Thucydides shaped history and how his narrative shapes our experience as readers of the History. In addition, it also examines the relationship between Thucydides' work and contemporary institutions, such as the theatre, which shaped his approach to his subject. Thirdly, this book also explores the role that ancient readers and modern scholars have played in shaping how we perceive the History."--BOOK JACKET.