For both Classics and Ancient History, ancient historiography offers the most direct access to the world and history of Rome. Caesar, Tacitus and Cassius Dio have served as sources for the image of Rome and the Roman Empire for almost two millennia. This introduction examines the persuasive power of these historical narratives and describes the forms and development of historical documentation and representation. Vivid images and memorable examples are used to illuminate the techniques and strategies of the texts, as well as the cultural and historical preconditions of their authors. Jörg Rüpke examines the historical sources as well as the literary approaches to these texts.