Nicolaus of Damascus (Νικόλαος ὁ Δαμασκηνός) was a Greek historian and philosopher of the 1st century BCE and early 1st century CE [1][2]. Born in Damascus to a distinguished family, he received a thorough Greek education, studying Peripatetic philosophy in Athens [1][2]. His career centered on the court of Herod the Great, whom he served as secretary, diplomat, and tutor, a role that also brought him into the circle of the emperor Augustus as a friend and advisor [1][2].

His prolific output, largely preserved in fragments, includes a monumental 144-book Universal History (Ἱστορία) covering events to 4 BCE, and a Life of Augustus (Βίος Καίσαρος), a crucial biographical source for the emperor [1][2][3]. Other works encompass an Aristotelian compendium On the Philosophy of Aristotle, an ethnographic Collection of Remarkable Customs, an autobiography, and dramatic works [1].

Nicolaus is a significant figure at the intersection of Greek, Jewish, and Roman cultures [1]. His unique position granted him exceptional access to contemporary events and power, making his historical works important sources for later historians, particularly regarding the Near East and the Augustan age [1][2][3].

Sources 1. Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Classics: https://oxfordre.com/classics/view/10.1093/acrefore/9780199381135.001.0001/acrefore-9780199381135-e-4413 2. Encyclopædia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Nicolaus-of-Damascus 3. Perseus Digital Library, Smith's Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography and Mythology: https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.04.0104%3Aentry%3Dnicolaus-bio-1