Page:The geography of Strabo (1854) Volume 1.djvu/36

 2 STRABO. BOOK i. ful, memorable, and entertaining. In the colossal works of the sculptor we do not descend into a minute examination of particulars, but look principally for perfection in the general ensemble. This is the only method of criticism applicable to the present work. Its proportions, so to speak, are colossal ; it deals in the generalities and main outlines of things, except now and then, when some minor detail can be selected, calcu- lated to be serviceable to the seeker after knowledge, or the man of business. We now think we have demonstrated that our present un- dertaking is one that requires great care, and is well worthy of a philosopher. CHAPTER II. 1. No one can [justly] blame us for having undertaken to write on a subject already often treated of, unless it appears that we have done nothing more than copy the works of former writers. In our opinion, though they may have perfectly treated some subjects, in others they have still left much to be completed ; and we shall be justified in our performance, if we can add to their information even in a trifling degree. At the present moment the conquests of the Romans and Par- thians have added much to our knowledge, which (as was well observed by Eratosthenes) had been considerably increased by the expedition of Alexander. This prince laid open to our view the greater part of Asia, and the whole north of Europe as far as the Danube. And the Romans [have discovered Cous] the entire wesToF Eupope as far as the river Elbe, which di- vides Germany, and the country beyond theTster to the river Dniester. The country beyond this to the MaBOtis, 1 and the coasts extending along Colchis, 2 was brought to light by Mithri- dates, surnamed Eupator, and his generals. To the Parthians we are indebted for a better acquaintance with Hyrcania, 3 Bac- 1 The Sea of Azof. 2 Mingrelia ; east of the Euxine. 3 A large country of Asia to the south of the eastern part of the Cas- pian Sea. It became much restricted during the Parthian rule, contain-