Previous research saw Diodorus as an author with modest intellect and a working technique of equal mediocrity, just capable enough of reconstructing forgotten historical works from the Hellenistic period. This study reveals a serious historiographer who brought an entirely original perspective to his "universal history", based on his own background, talent, and training, especially as he presented heroic figures, such as Alexander the Great.

Michael Rathmann, Universität Eichstätt-Ingolstadt.