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Why has Herodotus developed a reputation for being credulous?

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Herodotus Herodotus, detail of a Roman herm probably copied from a Greek original of the first half of the 4th century bce; in the National Archaeological Museum, Naples.

Herodotus, often called the "father of history," developed a reputation for credulity primarily because he believed it was his duty to record the traditions and accounts of various peoples, regardless of how dubious they seemed.12

While he was known for not resisting a good story, this reputation does not mean he endorsed everything he reported. Herodotus actively practiced a form of critical inquiry; for example, he questioned priests in different Egyptian cities to verify if their accounts aligned, and he openly dismissed certain Greek stories about the hero Heracles as "silly fables" that lacked critical sense.12

Ultimately, his work reflects a commitment to preserving the diverse cultural records of the ancient world, balancing narrative artistry with an effort to discern the underlying causes of customs and historical events. Despite the criticisms regarding his perceived credulity, his History remains an invaluable source for understanding the Greco-Persian Wars.12