How did Thucydides’ style differ from history meant to be spoken aloud?

Thucydides’ writing style differed significantly from historical accounts intended for oral delivery, such as those of his predecessor Herodotus. While earlier traditions often relied on narrative artistry and storytelling to engage an audience, Thucydides’ prose is characterized as condensed, direct, and austere, designed specifically to be read rather than spoken aloud.1

His approach was rooted in a desire to establish a diagnostic, scientific method of history rather than to provide entertainment or seek immediate public applause. Consequently, he avoided the "storytelling" elements common in oral traditions, acknowledging that his work might be less attractive to a casual reader as a result.12

Instead of prioritizing the rhythmic or performative qualities required for oral presentation, Thucydides focused on:
* Clarity and Impartiality: He sought to explain the complexities of events through a scientific lens.1
* Intellectual Rigor: His writing reflects the influence of contemporary philosophers and playwrights, often utilizing abstract expressions and rhetorical antitheses, particularly within his recorded speeches.1
* Utility for Posterity: He explicitly stated that his work was written to last forever, serving as a useful resource for future students of history who wish to understand the recurring patterns of human nature.12