delves into geographical, logistical, and cultural aspects, evaluating the implications of such an undertaking in antiquity. The opening of the text sets a scholarly tone, establishing the debate regarding the accuracy of Herodotus' account. Müller outlines the historical context and provides a glimpse into the extensive discussions and literature surrounding the subject over the centuries. He acknowledges the complexity and challenges of affirming the historical truth of the expedition, arguing for the expedition's plausibility while addressing the skepticism of earlier scholars. This sets the stage for a detailed exploration of sources, motivations, and the maritime prowess of the Phönizier, hinting at the depth of research and critical analysis to follow in the subsequent chapters. (This is an automatically generated summary.)