History: What and Why? is an introductory survey of historians' views about the nature and purpose of their subject. It takes particular account of the classical and early-modern periods, and concludes with a consideration of ongoing debates.

It offers a historical perspective and clear guide to contemporary debates about the nature and purpose of history; a discussion of the traditional model of history as an account of the past 'as it was'; an assessment of the challenges to orthodox views posed by developments in psychology, linguistics, and philosophy; an examination of the impact of Marxism, feminism, and post-colonialism on the study of history; and a postmodern vision for the future of the subject.