Best Selling Ancient History Book on Apple Books

Chart of the top 50 most popular and best selling ancient history ebooks at the Apple Books.

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History Ebook Best Sellers

Top Ancient History eBooks

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Pompeii - Alex Butterworth & Ray Laurence Cover Art

Pompeii

Pompeii The Living City by Alex Butterworth & Ray Laurence

"Splendidly recreate[s] the bustling life of this Roman town, as well as the eruption . . . a first-rate and compelling history of an ancient city." — Publishers Weekly The ash of Mt. Vesuvius preserves a living record of the complex and exhilarating society it instantly obliterated two thousand years ago. In this highly readable, lavishly illustrated book, Alex Butterworth and Ray Laurence marshal cutting-edge archaeological reconstructions and a vibrant historical tradition dating to Pliny and Tacitus; they present a richly textured portrait of a society not altogether unlike ours, composed of individuals ordinary and extraordinary who pursued commerce, politics, family and pleasure in the shadow of a killer volcano. Deeply resonant in a world still at the mercy of natural disaster, Pompeii recreates life as experienced in the city, and those frantic, awful hours in AD 79 that wiped the bustling city from the face of the earth. Please note that this ebook does not contain the photo insert that appears in the print book. "A compelling and yet highly detailed narrative. I only wish it had been available when I was researching my novel." —Robert Harris, New York Times –bestselling author of Conclave and Pompeii "An immensely evocative, well-written and powerful portrait of what life was really like in Pompeii." —Tom Holland, author of Dominion "Brings Pompeii startlingly alive once more." — History Today "A vivid portrait of place and people before the cataclysms of AD 62 and 75." — Church Times "Accessible, wide-ranging and evocative and makes surprisingly compelling reading." — Catholic Times "For those looking to be transported back to the living city, it will be hard to resist." — Oxford Times

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Pox Romana - Colin Elliott Cover Art

Pox Romana

Pox Romana The Plague That Shook the Roman World by Colin Elliott

A wide-ranging and dramatic account of the Antonine plague, the mysterious disease that struck the Roman Empire at its pinnacle In the middle of the second century AD, Rome was at its prosperous and powerful apex. The emperor Marcus Aurelius reigned over a vast territory that stretched from Britain to Egypt. The Roman-made peace, or Pax Romana , seemed to be permanent. Then, apparently out of nowhere, a sudden sickness struck the legions and laid waste to cities, including Rome itself. This fast-spreading disease, now known as the Antonine plague, may have been history’s first pandemic. Soon after its arrival, the Empire began its downward trajectory toward decline and fall. In Pox Romana , historian Colin Elliott offers a comprehensive, wide-ranging account of this pivotal moment in Roman history. Did a single disease—its origins and diagnosis still a mystery—bring Rome to its knees? Carefully examining all the available evidence, Elliott shows that Rome’s problems were more insidious. Years before the pandemic, the thin veneer of Roman peace and prosperity had begun to crack: the economy was sluggish, the military found itself bogged down in the Balkans and the Middle East, food insecurity led to riots and mass migration, and persecution of Christians intensified. The pandemic exposed the crumbling foundations of a doomed Empire. Arguing that the disease was both cause and effect of Rome’s fall, Elliott describes the plague’s “preexisting conditions” (Rome’s multiple economic, social, and environmental susceptibilities); recounts the history of the outbreak itself through the experiences of physician, victim, and political operator; and explores postpandemic crises. The pandemic’s most transformative power, Elliott suggests, may have been its lingering presence as a threat both real and perceived.

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The Bloodlines of The Elite and The History of The Illuminati - Archangel Metatron Cover Art

The Bloodlines of The Elite and The History of The Illuminati

The Bloodlines of The Elite and The History of The Illuminati by Archangel Metatron

The following is an understandable, detailed, and summarized timeline of events and people which have been proven scientifically, archaeologically, genetically and historically. It is time you all wake up and see the world for what it truly is. Please know this was not written    in order to attack any personal beliefs, but rather to let you know what is really going on. You have been lied to. We, The Anonymous Charity are no writers, merely researchers. You must open your mind and free yourself from the brainwashing control they have put you under, if you are to continue this. You must realize that what you know is simply not true and these broadcasts and the evidence brought forth here will challenge and discredit most, if not everything that you believe. It will hurt your feelings. You will want to be defensive and not try to listen to the content. It will make you angry. You will start to understand and your eyes will begin to open. It will make you act. You will know the truth and you will understand that freedom is only obtained when we speak the truth. Your life is about to change. Welcome to The Collective HQ. Let's begin with the very structure of the group of people we will discuss. The structure beings with DNA. The Blood.

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Paul - N. T. Wright Cover Art

Paul

Paul A Biography by N. T. Wright

In this definitive biography, renowned Bible scholar, Anglican bishop, and bestselling author N. T. Wright offers a radical look at the apostle Paul, illuminating the humanity and remarkable achievements of this intellectual who invented Christian theology—transforming a faith and changing the world. For centuries, Paul, the apostle who "saw the light on the Road to Damascus" and made a miraculous conversion from zealous Pharisee persecutor to devoted follower of Christ, has been one of the church’s most widely cited saints. While his influence on Christianity has been profound, N. T. Wright argues that Bible scholars and pastors have focused so much attention on Paul’s letters and theology that they have too often overlooked the essence of the man’s life and the extreme unlikelihood of what he achieved. To Wright, "The problem is that Paul is central to any understanding of earliest Christianity, yet Paul was a Jew; for many generations Christians of all kinds have struggled to put this together." Wright contends that our knowledge of Paul and appreciation for his legacy cannot be complete without an understanding of his Jewish heritage. Giving us a thoughtful, in-depth exploration of the human and intellectual drama that shaped Paul, Wright provides greater clarity of the apostle’s writings, thoughts, and ideas and helps us see them in a fresh, innovative way. Paul is a compelling modern biography that reveals the apostle’s greater role in Christian history—as an inventor of new paradigms for how we understand Jesus and what he accomplished—and celebrates his stature as one of the most effective and influential intellectuals in human history.

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The Spartan Regime - Paul Anthony Rahe Cover Art

The Spartan Regime

The Spartan Regime Its Character, Origins and Grand Strategy by Paul Anthony Rahe

"[A] monumental history . . . explaining . . . how Sparta's early strategic role in the Greek world was inseparable from the uniqueness of its origins and values." (David Hanson, The Hoover Institution, author of The Other Greeks) For centuries, ancient Sparta has been glorified in song, fiction, and popular art. Yet the true nature of a civilization described as a combination of democracy and oligarchy by Aristotle, considered an ideal of liberty in the ages of Machiavelli and Rousseau, and viewed as a forerunner of the modern totalitarian state by many twentieth-century scholars has long remained a mystery. In a bold new approach to historical study, noted historian Paul Rahe attempts to unravel the Spartan riddle by deploying the regime-oriented political science of the ancient Greeks, pioneered by Herodotus, Thucydides, Plato, Xenophon, and Polybius, in order to provide a more coherent picture of government, art, culture, and daily life in Lacedaemon than has previously appeared in print, and to explore the grand strategy the Spartans devised before the arrival of the Persians in the Aegean. "Persuasive." —Thomas E. Ricks,  New York Times Book Review "Rahe thinks and writes big. . . .  The Spartan Regime  breaks important new ground." —Jacob Howland,  Commentary "An important new history. . . . The story of this ancient clash of civilizations, masterfully told by Paul Rahe . . . provides a timely reminder about strategic challenges and choices confronting the United States." —John Maurer,  Claremont Review of Books "Rahe's ability to reveal the human side beneath [an] austere exterior is one of many reasons to read this beautifully written, meticulously researched, and deeply engaging book." —Waller R. Newell,  Washington Free Beacon "A serious scholarly endeavor." —Eric W. Robinson,  American Historical Review

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Israel - Daniel Gordis Cover Art

Israel

Israel A Concise History of a Nation Reborn by Daniel Gordis

Winner of the Jewish Book of the Year Award The first comprehensive yet accessible history of the state of Israel from its inception to present day, from Daniel Gordis, "one of the most respected Israel analysts" (The Forward) living and writing in Jerusalem. Israel is a tiny state, and yet it has captured the world’s attention, aroused its imagination, and lately, been the object of its opprobrium. Why does such a small country speak to so many global concerns? More pressingly: Why does Israel make the decisions it does? And what lies in its future? We cannot answer these questions until we understand Israel’s people and the questions and conflicts, the hopes and desires, that have animated their conversations and actions. Though Israel’s history is rife with conflict, these conflicts do not fully communicate the spirit of Israel and its people: they give short shrift to the dream that gave birth to the state, and to the vision for the Jewish people that was at its core. Guiding us through the milestones of Israeli history, Gordis relays the drama of the Jewish people’s story and the creation of the state. Clear-eyed and erudite, he illustrates how Israel became a cultural, economic and military powerhouse—but also explains where Israel made grave mistakes and traces the long history of Israel’s deepening isolation. With Israel, public intellectual Daniel Gordis offers us a brief but thorough account of the cultural, economic, and political history of this complex nation, from its beginnings to the present. Accessible, levelheaded, and rigorous, Israel sheds light on the Israel’s past so we can understand its future. The result is a vivid portrait of a people, and a nation, reborn.

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The Prophets - Abraham J. Heschel Cover Art

The Prophets

The Prophets by Abraham J. Heschel

The enduring masterpiece on the Old Testament prophets from the legendary twentieth-century Jewish theologian and author of the classics works Man Is Not Alone and God in Search of Man. “A brilliant study of the Hebrew prophets, one of the most penetrating works . . . [of] our time.”— Will Herberg When it was first published in 1962, The Prophets was hailed as a masterpiece. Since then, Heschel's classic work has stood the test of time. The Prophets provides a unique opportunity for readers of all faiths to gain a fresh perspective and deep knowledge of the Old Testament and Israel’s ancient prophetic movement. Heschel’s profound understanding of the prophets and detailed examinations of them, including Amos, Hosea, Isahiah, Micah, and Jeremiah, offers crucial insights into the philosophy of religion that continue to hold relevance for modern scholars and laymen alike.

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The Complete Works of Flavius Josephus - Flavius Josephus Cover Art

The Complete Works of Flavius Josephus

The Complete Works of Flavius Josephus History of the Jewish War against the Romans, The Antiquities of the Jews, Against Apion, Discourse to the Greeks concerning Hades & Autobiography by Flavius Josephus

This meticulously edited collection has been formatted for your eReader with a functional and detailed table of contents: The War of the Jews The Antiquities of the Jews Against Apion Discourse to the Greeks concerning Hades The Life of Flavius Josephus: Autobiography Titus Flavius Josephus was a first-century Romano-Jewish scholar, historian and hagiographer, who was born in Jerusalem—then part of Roman Judea—to a father of priestly descent and a mother who claimed royal ancestry. He initially fought against the Romans during the First Jewish–Roman War as head of Jewish forces in Galilee, until surrendering in 67 CE to Roman forces led by Vespasian after the six-week siege of Jotapata. After Vespasian became Emperor in 69 CE, he granted Josephus his freedom, at which time Josephus assumed the emperor's family name of Flavius. He fully defected to the Roman side and was granted Roman citizenship. Josephus recorded Jewish history, with special emphasis on the first century CE and the First Jewish–Roman War, including the Siege of Masada. His most important works were The Jewish War (c. 75) and Antiquities of the Jews (c. 94).

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Nero - Anthony Everitt & Roddy Ashworth Cover Art

Nero

Nero Matricide, Music, and Murder in Imperial Rome by Anthony Everitt & Roddy Ashworth

A striking, nuanced biography of Nero—the controversial populist ruler and last of the Caesars—and a vivid portrait of ancient Rome “Exciting and provocative . . . Nero is a pleasure to read.”—Barry Strauss, author of The War That Made the Roman Empire: Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian at Actium The Roman emperor Nero’s name has long been a byword for cruelty, decadence, and despotism. As the stories go, he set fire to Rome and thrummed his lyre as it burned. He then cleared the charred ruins and built a vast palace. He committed incest with his mother, who had schemed and killed to place him on the throne, and later murdered her. But these stories, left behind by contemporary historians who hated him, are hardly the full picture, and in this nuanced biography, celebrated historian Anthony Everitt and investigative journalist Roddy Ashworth reveal the contradictions inherent in Nero and offer a reappraisal of his life. Contrary to popular memory, the empire was well managed during his reign. He presided over diplomatic triumphs, and his legions overcame the fiery British queen Boudica who led one of the greatest revolts Rome had ever had to face. He loved art, culture, and music, and he won the loyalty of the lower classes with fantastic spectacles. He did not set fire to Rome. In Nero , ancient Rome comes to life: the fire-prone streets, the deadly political intrigues, and the ongoing architectural projects. In this teeming, politically unstable world, Nero was vulnerable to fierce reproach from the nobility and relatives who would gladly usurp him, and he was often too ready to murder rivals. He had a vision for Rome, but, racked by insecurity, he perhaps lacked the stomach to govern it. This is the bloodstained story of one of Rome’s most notorious emperors: but in Everitt and Ashworth’s hands, Nero’s life is also a complicated, cautionary tale about the mettle required to rule.

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The Histories - Herodotus, Tom Holland & Paul Cartledge Cover Art

The Histories

The Histories by Herodotus, Tom Holland & Paul Cartledge

“Unquestionably the best English translation of Herodotus to have appeared in the past half-century.” — The Times Literary Supplement In Tom Holland’s vibrant translation, one of the great masterpieces of Western history springs to life. Herodotus of Halicarnassus—hailed by Cicero as the “Father of History”—composed his histories around 440 BC. The earliest surviving work of nonfiction, The Histories works its way from the Trojan War through an epic account of the war between the Persian empire and the Greek city-states in the fifth century BC, recording landmark events that ensured the development of Western culture and still capture our modern imagination. Beautifully packaged in a Penguin Classics Deluxe edition with a comprehensive array of tools to guide first-time readers and experts alike, this accessible translation makes Herodotus fresh and irresistible once more. For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.

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Carthage Must Be Destroyed - Richard Miles Cover Art

Carthage Must Be Destroyed

Carthage Must Be Destroyed The Rise and Fall of an Ancient Civilization by Richard Miles

The first full-scale history of Hannibal's Carthage in decades and "a convincing and enthralling narrative." ( The Economist ) Drawing on a wealth of new research, archaeologist, historian, and master storyteller Richard Miles resurrects the civilization that ancient Rome struggled so mightily to expunge. This monumental work charts the entirety of Carthage's history, from its origins among the Phoenician settlements of Lebanon to its apotheosis as a Mediterranean empire whose epic land-and-sea clash with Rome made a legend of Hannibal and shaped the course of Western history. Carthage Must Be Destroyed reintroduces readers to the ancient glory of a lost people and their generations-long struggle against an implacable enemy.

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Ancient Greece - Thomas R. Martin Cover Art

Ancient Greece

Ancient Greece by Thomas R. Martin

In this compact yet comprehensive history of ancient Greece, Thomas R. Martin brings alive Greek civilization from its Stone Age roots to the fourth century B.C. Focusing on the development of the Greek city-state and the society, culture, and architecture of Athens in its Golden Age, Martin integrates political, military, social, and cultural history in a book that will appeal to students and general readers alike. Now in its second edition, this classic work now features new maps and illustrations, a new introduction, and updates throughout. “A limpidly written, highly accessible, and comprehensive history of Greece and its civilizations from prehistory through the collapse of Alexander the Great’s empire. . . . A highly readable account of ancient Greece, particularly useful as an introductory or review text for the student or the general reader.”— Kirkus Reviews  “A polished and informative work that will be useful for general readers and students.”—Daniel Tompkins, Temple University

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The Hemlock Cup - Bettany Hughes Cover Art

The Hemlock Cup

The Hemlock Cup Socrates, Athens and the Search for the Good Life by Bettany Hughes

We think the way we do because Socrates thought the way he did; in his unwavering commitment to truth and in the example of his own life, he set the standard for all subsequent Western philosophy. And yet, for twenty-five centuries, he has remained an enigma: a man who left no written legacy and about whom everything we know is hearsay, gleaned from the writings of Plato, Xenophon and Aristophanes. Now Bettany Hughes gives us an unprecedented, brilliantly vivid portrait of Socrates and of his homeland, Athens in its Golden Age. His life spanned “seventy of the busiest, most wonderful and tragic years in Athenian history.” It was a city devastated by war, but, at the same time, transformed by the burgeoning process of democracy, and Hughes re-creates this fifth-century B.C. city, drawing on the latest sources—archaeological, topographical and textual—to illuminate the streets where Socrates walked, to place him there and to show us the world as he experienced it. She takes us through the great, teeming Agora—the massive marketplace, the heart of ancient Athens—where Socrates engaged in philosophical dialogue and where he would be condemned to death. We visit the battlefields where he fought, the red-light district and gymnasia he frequented and the religious festivals he attended. We meet the men and the few women—including his wife, Xanthippe, and his “inspiration” and confidante, Aspasia—who were central to his life. We travel to where he was born and where he died. And we come to understand the profound influences of time and place in the evolution of his eternally provocative philosophy. Deeply informed and vibrantly written, combining historical inquiry and storytelling élan, The Hemlock Cup gives us the most substantial, fascinating, humane depiction we have ever had of one of the most influential thinkers of all time.

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The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius (Olymp Classics) - Marcus Aurelius Cover Art

The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius (Olymp Classics)

The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius (Olymp Classics) by Marcus Aurelius

Olymp Classics is the reference in classical works. All our works are of good quality and contain an active table of contents (HTML), which will make it easier for you to read. "Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them." ― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius are a beautiful compositions of the thoughts and meditations of Marcus Aurelius the wise, the last of the five great emperors of the Roman Empire. Composed in Greek while on a military campaign, Meditations is a reflection of stoic philosophy paired with the Roman Emperor's quest to understand himself and his place in the universe. This Xist Classics edition has been professionally formatted for e-readers with a linked table of contents. This ebook also contains a bonus book club leadership guide and discussion questions. We hope you'll share this book with your friends, neighbors and colleagues and can't wait to hear what you have to say about it.

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The Roman Republic - David M. Gwynn Cover Art

The Roman Republic

The Roman Republic A Very Short Introduction by David M. Gwynn

The rise and fall of the Roman Republic occupies a special place in the history of Western civilization. From humble beginnings on the seven hills beside the Tiber, the city of Rome grew to dominate the ancient Mediterranean. Led by her senatorial aristocracy, Republican armies defeated Carthage and the successor kingdoms of Alexander the Great, and brought the surrounding peoples to east and west into the Roman sphere. Yet the triumph of the Republic was also its tragedy. In this Very Short Introduction, David M. Gwynn provides a fascinating introduction to the history of the Roman Republic and its literary and material sources, bringing to life the culture and society of Republican Rome and its ongoing significance within our modern world. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

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How to Survive in Ancient Rome - L. J. Trafford Cover Art

How to Survive in Ancient Rome

How to Survive in Ancient Rome by L. J. Trafford

What you'd need to know if you time-traveled to Ancient Rome—from local customs to clothing to religion to housing to food. Imagine you were transported back in time to Ancient Rome and you had to start a new life there. How would you fit in? Where would you live? What would you eat? Where would you go to have your hair done? Who would you go to if you got ill, or if you were mugged in the street? All these questions, and many more, are answered in this new how-to guide for time travelers. This lively and engaging twist on ancient history reveals how to deal with the many problems and new experiences you would face—and thrive in this strange new environment.

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Delhi Complete The Library of Apollodorus - Apollodorus of Athens Cover Art

Delhi Complete The Library of Apollodorus

Delhi Complete The Library of Apollodorus by Apollodorus of Athens

Traditionally attributed to Apollodorus of Athens, ‘The Library’ is a first or second century encyclopaedia of Greek mythology and heroic legends, written in a concise and unembellished style, closely following Greek literary sources. The extant text provides an important record of Greek accounts of the origin and early history of the world, preserving many otherwise lost mythological tales. Delphi’s Ancient Classics series provides eReaders with the wisdom of the Classical world, with both English translations and the original Greek texts.  This comprehensive eBook presents the complete extant ‘Library’, with dual Greek and English text, relevant illustrations, informative introductions and the usual Delphi bonus material. (Version 1) * Beautifully illustrated with images relating to Apollodorus’ life and works * Features the complete extant text of ‘The Library’, in both English translation and the original Greek * Concise introduction to the great work * Features J. G. Frazer’s translation and footnotes, previously appearing in Loeb Classical Library edition of Apollodorus * Images of famous paintings inspired by ‘The Library’ * Excellent formatting of the texts * Easily locate the sections you want to read with individual contents tables * Includes Frazer’s rare ‘Epitome’, first time in digital print * Provides a special dual English and Greek text, allowing readers to compare the sections paragraph by paragraph – ideal for students * Features a bonus biography – discover the ancient world of ‘The Library’ * Scholarly ordering of texts into chronological order and literary genres Please visit www.delphiclassics.com to explore our range of Ancient Classics titles or buy the entire series as a Super Set CONTENTS: The Translation THE LIBRARY The Greek Text CONTENTS OF THE GREEK TEXT The Dual Text DUAL GREEK AND ENGLISH TEXT The Biography INTRODUCTION TO APOLLODORUS by Sir James George Frazer Please visit www.delphiclassics.com to browse through our range of exciting titles

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The First Ghosts - Irving Finkel Cover Art

The First Ghosts

The First Ghosts A rich history of ancient ghosts and ghost stories from the British Museum curator by Irving Finkel

'It's enthralling stuff, mixing the scholarly with the accessible and placing storytelling right at the heart of the human experience.' - History Revealed 'A fascinating journey' - Yorkshire Post 'Marvellous...Finkel is an expert in Mesopotamian cultures at the British Museum, and is one of the most clever, and nicest, of people it has ever been my pleasure to encounter...A fascinating journey' - The Scotsman There are few things more in common across cultures than the belief in ghosts. Ghosts inhabit something of the very essence of what it is to be human. Whether we personally 'believe' or not, we are all aware of ghosts and the rich mythologies and rituals surrounding them. They have inspired, fascinated and frightened us for centuries - yet most of us are only familiar with the vengeful apparitions of Shakespeare, or the ghastly spectres haunting the pages of 19th century gothic literature. But their origins are much, much older... The First Ghosts: Most Ancient of Legacies takes us back to the very beginning. A world-renowned authority on cuneiform, the form of writing on clay tablets which dates back to 3400BC, Irving Finkel has embarked upon an ancient ghost hunt, scouring these tablets to unlock the secrets of the Sumerians, Babylonians and Assyrians to breathe new life into the first ghost stories ever written. In The First Ghosts , he uncovers an extraordinarily rich seam of ancient spirit wisdom which has remained hidden for nearly 4000 years, covering practical details of how to live with ghosts, how to get rid of them and bring them back, and how to avoid becoming one, as well as exploring more philosophical questions: what are ghosts, why does the idea of them remain so powerful despite the lack of concrete evidence, and what do they tell us about being human?

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Legionary - Philip Matyszak Cover Art

Legionary

Legionary The Roman Soldier's (Unofficial) Manual by Philip Matyszak

An insider's guide: how to join the Roman legions, wield a gladius, storm cities, and conquer the world Your emperor needs you for the Roman army! The year is AD 100 and Rome stands supreme and unconquerable from the desert sands of Mesopotamia to the misty highlands of Caledonia. Yet the might of Rome rests completely on the armored shoulders of the legionaries who hold back the barbarian hordes and push forward the frontiers of empire. This carefully researched yet entertainingly nonacademic book tells you how to join the Roman legions, the best places to serve, and how to keep your armor from getting rusty. Learn to march under the eagles of Rome, from training, campaigns, and battle to the glory of a Roman Triumph and retirement with a pension plan. Every aspect of army life is discussed, from drill to diet, with handy tips on topics such as how to select the best boots or how to avoid being skewered by enemy spears. Combining the latest archaeological discoveries with the written records of those who actually saw the Roman legions in action, this book provides a vivid picture of what it meant to be a Roman legionary.

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Sayings of the Spartans - Plutarch & Frank Cole Babbit Cover Art

Sayings of the Spartans

Sayings of the Spartans by Plutarch & Frank Cole Babbit

In this compilation from Plutarch's Moralia of famous sayings from over sixty Spartans we are shown that not were these ancients brave warriors in battle but had a complete philosophy of life which guided all their actions. Include all 372 footnotes.

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Those About to Die - Daniel P Mannix Cover Art

Those About to Die

Those About to Die by Daniel P Mannix

The basis for the new Peacock television series: The classic, in-depth account of the ancient Romans' obsession with the bloody and brutal gladiatorial games. "If you can imagine a superior American sports writer suddenly being transported back in time to cover the ancient Roman games, you will have some idea of the flavor and zest of [ Those About to Die ]," said the Los Angeles Times about Daniel P. Mannix's century-by-century—and nearly moment-by-moment—narrative of the Roman Empire's national institution. Putting the games in the context of Rome's rise and dramatic fall, Mannix captures all the history, planning, and savage pageantry that went into creating the first spectator sports. The games began in 238 BC as nearly county fair–like entertainment, with trick riding, acrobats, trained animals, chariot racing, and athletic events. The contests then evolved into slave fights thanks to wealthy patricians Marcus and Decimus Brutus, who wanted to give their father an unforgettable funeral by reviving an old tradition. What the brothers wrought, Rome devoured, demanding even greater violence to satisfy the bloodlust of the crowd. Architectural wonders in themselves, massive arenas like Circus Maximus and the Colosseum were built, able to host sea battle reenactments on actual water. Successful gladiators found fame, fortune—and freedom. But as Rome began to fall in the fifth century, so did the games, devolving into nothing more than pointless massacres. In the end, millions of humans and animals were sacrificed in barbaric displays. What were once ceremonies given in honor of gods met an inglorious fate, yet they still captivate the imagination of people today.

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Escape from Rome - Walter Scheidel Cover Art

Escape from Rome

Escape from Rome The Failure of Empire and the Road to Prosperity by Walter Scheidel

The gripping story of how the end of the Roman Empire was the beginning of the modern world The fall of the Roman Empire has long been considered one of the greatest disasters in history. But in this groundbreaking book, Walter Scheidel argues that Rome's dramatic collapse was actually the best thing that ever happened, clearing the path for Europe's economic rise and the creation of the modern age. Ranging across the entire premodern world, Escape from Rome offers new answers to some of the biggest questions in history: Why did the Roman Empire appear? Why did nothing like it ever return to Europe? And, above all, why did Europeans come to dominate the world? In an absorbing narrative that begins with ancient Rome but stretches far beyond it, from Byzantium to China and from Genghis Khan to Napoleon, Scheidel shows how the demise of Rome and the enduring failure of empire-building on European soil ensured competitive fragmentation between and within states. This rich diversity encouraged political, economic, scientific, and technological breakthroughs that allowed Europe to surge ahead while other parts of the world lagged behind, burdened as they were by traditional empires and predatory regimes that lived by conquest. It wasn’t until Europe "escaped" from Rome that it launched an economic transformation that changed the continent and ultimately the world. What has the Roman Empire ever done for us? Fall and go away.

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Plato and the Tyrant - James Romm Cover Art

Plato and the Tyrant

Plato and the Tyrant The Fall of Greece's Greatest Dynasty and the Making of a Philosophic Masterpiece by James Romm

A Foreign Affairs Best Book of the Year “[E]xcellent . . . a deft and engaging work of history, philosophy and biography . . . a kind of intellectual thriller.” —Becca Rothfeld, Washington Post From an eminent historian and classicist, an incisive portrait of the philosopher Plato, showing how the ideas in his masterwork, Republic, were tested by violent events in the most powerful Greek city of the era. Plato is one of history’s most influential thinkers, the “sublime philosopher” whose writings remain foundational to Western culture. He is known for the brilliant dialogues in which he depicted his teacher, Socrates, discussing ethical truths with prominent citizens of Athens. Yet the image we have of Plato—an ethereal figure far removed from society and politics, who conjured abstract ideas in peaceful groves—is a fiction, created by Plato’s admirers and built up over centuries. In fact, Plato was very much a man of the world. In Plato and the Tyrant, acclaimed historian and classicist James Romm draws on personal letters of Plato—documents that have long been kept in obscurity—to show how a philosopher helped topple the leading Greek power of the era: the opulent city of Syracuse. There, Plato encountered two authoritarian rulers, a father and son both named Dionysius, and tried to steer them toward philosophy. At the same time, he worked on his masterpiece, Republic, in which he conceived a ruler who unites perfect wisdom with absolute power. That dream has echoed down through the ages and given rise to a famous term, one that Plato himself didn’t actually use: philosopher-king. As Romm reveals, Plato’s time in Syracuse helped shape Republic—and also had disastrous results for Plato himself and for all of Greek Sicily. The younger Dionysius, emotionally unstable but intellectually curious, welcomed Plato with open arms, but soon the relationship soured. Plato’s close friendship with Dionysius’s uncle, Dion—possibly a bond of romantic love—created a rift in the ruling family that led to a chaotic civil war. Combining thrilling political drama with explorations of Plato’s most cherished ideas, Romm takes us into the heart of Greece’s late classical age, a time when many believed that democracy had failed. Plato’s search for solutions led him to write his fervent plea for a new political order, and also led him to a place where he believed his theories might be put into practice. But Plato and the Tyrant demonstrates how Plato’s experiment with enlightened autocracy spiraled into catastrophe, and also gives us nothing less than a new account of the origins of Western political thought.

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The Frontiers of the Roman Empire - David Breeze Cover Art

The Frontiers of the Roman Empire

The Frontiers of the Roman Empire by David Breeze

"Practically all new information on the greatest empire of all and how it controlled and policed its frontiers. Absolutely fascinating!"— Books Monthly At its height, the Roman Empire was the greatest empire yet seen with borders stretching from the rain-swept highlands of Scotland in the north to the sun-scorched Nubian desert in the south. But how were the vast and varied stretches of frontier defined and defended? Many of Rome's frontier defenses have been the subject of detailed and ongoing study and scholarship. Three frontier zones are now UNESCO World Heritage sites (the Antonine Wall having recently been granted this status—the author led the bid), and there is growing interest in their study. This wide-ranging survey will describe the varying frontier systems, describing the extant remains, methods and materials of construction and highlighting the differences between various frontiers. Professor Breeze considers how the frontiers worked, discussing this in relation to the organization and structure of the Roman army, and also their impact on civilian life along the empire's borders. He then reconsiders the question of whether the frontiers were the product of an overarching Empire-wide grand strategy, questioning Luttwak's seminal hypothesis. This is a detailed and wide-ranging study of the frontier systems of the Roman Empire by a leading expert. Intended for the general reader, it is sure also to be of great value for academics and students in this field. The appendixes will include a brief guide to visiting the sites today. "The result of this book-crafting care and Breeze's erudition is a near-perfect example of specialized military history done for a popular audience." — Open Letters Monthly

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History of Egypt - H. R. Hall & L. W. King Cover Art

History of Egypt

History of Egypt by H. R. Hall & L. W. King

At no period have excavations been pursued with more energy and activity, both in Egypt and Western Asia, than at the present time, and every season's work obliges us to modify former theories, and extends our knowledge of periods of history which even ten years ago were unknown to the historian. For instance, a whole chapter has been added to Egyptian history by the discovery of the Neolithic culture of the primitive Egyptians, while the recent excavations at Susa are revealing a hitherto totally unsuspected epoch of proto-Elamite civilization. Further than this, we have discovered the relics of the oldest historical kings of Egypt, and we are now enabled to reconstitute from material as yet unpublished the inter-relations of the early dynasties of Babylon.

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The Vikings - Niel Oliver Cover Art

The Vikings

The Vikings by Niel Oliver

The Vikings famously took no prisoners, relished cruel retribution, and prided themselves on their bloodthirsty skills as warriors. But their prowess in battle is only a small part of their story, which stretches from their Scandinavian origins to America in the west and as far as Baghdad in the east. As the Vikings did not write their own history, we have to discover it for ourselves, and that discovery, as Neil Oliver reveals, tells an extraordinary story of a people who, from the brink of destruction, reached a quarter of the way around the globe and built an empire that lasted nearly two hundred years. Drawing on the latest discoveries that have only recently come to light, Scottish archaeologist Neil Oliver goes on the trail of the real Vikings. Where did they emerge from? How did they really live? And just what drove them to embark on such extraordinary voyages of discovery over 1,000 years ago? The  Vikings explores many of those questions for the first time in an epic story of one of the world's great empires of conquest.

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The Galatians - John D. Grainger Cover Art

The Galatians

The Galatians Celtic Invaders of Greece and Asia Minor by John D. Grainger

A historian of the ancient world examines the epic rise and fall of the Celtic tribes who invaded the Mediterranean and lands further east. The eastern Celtic tribes, known to the Greeks as Galatians, exploited the waning of Macedonian power after Alexander the Great's death to launch increasingly ambitious raids and expeditions into the Balkans. In 279 BC they launched a major invasion, defeating and beheading the Macedonian king, Ptolemy Keraunos, before sacking the Greeks' most sacred oracle at Delphi. Eventually forced to withdraw northwards, they were defeated by Antigonus Gonatus at Lysimachia in 277 BC but remained a threat. A large Galatian contingent was invited to cross to Asia to intervene in a war in Bithynia but they went on to seize much of central Anatolia for themselves, founding the state of Galatia. They remained a force in the region and their warriors served as mercenaries in many armies throughout the eastern Mediterranean. In this authoritative history, John Grainger explores the fortunes of these eastern Celts down to their eventual subjugation by the Romans, Galatia becoming a Roman province in 30 BC.

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The Daily Life of the Roman Citizen - Philip Davies Cover Art

The Daily Life of the Roman Citizen

The Daily Life of the Roman Citizen by Philip Davies

The Daily Life of the Roman Citizen by Philip Davies explores the everyday experiences of the ordinary Roman citizen, offering a detailed and immersive look into the daily activities, social structures, and cultural practices that shaped Roman life. From the bustling streets of ancient Rome to the quiet rural countryside, this book delves into the routines, customs, and challenges faced by Romans from all walks of life. The work examines topics such as family dynamics, food and drink, education, leisure activities, work, and religion, shedding light on how these elements intertwined with the broader political and economic systems of the Roman Empire. Through the lens of everyday life, the book also provides insights into the social hierarchy of Rome, the roles of men and women, the relationship between slaves and masters, and the ways in which Romans engaged with their expanding empire. By drawing from primary sources, archaeological findings, and scholarly analysis, The Daily Life of the Roman Citizen offers a compelling portrait of Roman society, making the world of ancient Rome come to life in vivid detail. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in the personal and communal aspects of Roman history, providing a fascinating exploration of how ordinary people lived in one of history's greatest civilizations.

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LIFE King Tut - The Editors of LIFE Cover Art

LIFE King Tut

LIFE King Tut by The Editors of LIFE

In 1922, archaeologist Howard Carter uncovered the mythological King Tutankhamun's Egyptian tomb and the many magnificent artifacts contained therein, and ever since, the world has clamored for a firsthand look. This ornately illustrated volume shares the real-time narrative of Carter's historic expedition in photographs - and much more.Highlights include: - The true story of King Tut, as told by today's historians - Photographs of the beautiful treasures uncovered from the tomb - A definitive guide to all the renditions of King Tut in movies and on TV

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Egypt: Ancient Sites and Modern Scenes - Gaston Maspero Cover Art

Egypt: Ancient Sites and Modern Scenes

Egypt: Ancient Sites and Modern Scenes by Gaston Maspero

In this volume Professor Maspero gives us a collection of charming word pictures of Egypt, in which history and archeology are made to blend with scenes of today, and the past is linked to the present. No living Egyptologist has such a command of facts as Professor Maspero, and no other writer on the land of the Pharaohs has such brilliant literary gifts and so picturesque a style. The book deals with the aspect of Egypt as it has presented itself to the author on his yearly voyages up and down the Nile to inspect the monuments in his official capacity as director of the Service des Antiquites.

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The Lost Voices of Pompeii - Dr. Jess Venner Cover Art

The Lost Voices of Pompeii

The Lost Voices of Pompeii Life and Death on Pompeii’s Final Day by Dr. Jess Venner

Award-winning ancient historian, archeologist, and social media sensation Dr. Jess Venner (@lifeinthepastlane_) brings the citizens of Pompeii back to life through a vibrant account of their final day before Mt. Vesuvius’s eruption. While the ruins of Pompeii still stand today, silent and perfectly preserved in ash and stone, they were once home to thousands of people whose lives were forever altered—or cut short—in the wake of Mt. Vesuvius. Through extensive research and vivid storytelling, leading expert Dr. Jess Venner goes beyond the devastation and shows a community teeming with art, customs, and culture. The Lost Voices of Pompeii follows ordinary citizens on what should have been an ordinary day: Petrinus, a slave, hopes to purchase his freedom; the recently elected Gaius Cuspius Pansa seeks to cement his legacy as a generous public servant; and the shrewd merchant Aulus Umbricius Scaurus and ambitious innkeeper Euxinus each devise ways to expand their growing businesses. Meanwhile, Julia Felix, a female entrepreneur, prepares to host the Cult of Isis and its mesmerizing priest Amisusius, and freedwoman turned businesswoman Umbricia Fortunata and her husband Lucius work to secure a better future for their children. Pompeii’s story is often reduced to the scope of its tragedy, but Dr. Venner brings our attention back to the individuals. As the citizens’ paths weave together and apart, leading up to the final, fateful moment, they capture a civilization rich in history, traditions, and aspirations. A profound and immersive experience, The Lost Voices of Pompeii revives a people often overshadowed by death and destruction and tells a poignant tale of humanity and resilience.

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Mythology (75th Anniversary Illustrated Edition) - Edith Hamilton & Jim Tierney Cover Art

Mythology (75th Anniversary Illustrated Edition)

Mythology (75th Anniversary Illustrated Edition) Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes by Edith Hamilton & Jim Tierney

This deluxe edition of the world's most beloved, bestselling classic on Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology is stunningly illustrated with specially commissioned full-color plates and a beautiful gold-bordered pages.  Since its original publication in 1942, Edith Hamilton's Mythology has sold millions of copies throughout the world and established itself as a perennial bestseller. For nearly 80 years, readers have chosen  Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes above all other books to discover the enchanting world of Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology -- from Odysseus's adventure-filled journey to Odin's effort to postpone the final day of doom. This deluxe, hardcover edition is illustrated throughout with specially commissioned, original artwork and beautifully illustrated lineages, making it a true collector's item.

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Rubicon - Tom Holland Cover Art

Rubicon

Rubicon The Last Years of the Roman Republic by Tom Holland

A vivid historical account of the social world of Julius Caesar’s Rome as it moved from republic to empire, from the acclaimed author of Dynasty and co-host of the hit podcast The Rest Is History “A fascinating picture of Roman city life . . . In every aspect of this story, Holland expertly makes the Romans, so alien and yet so familiar, relevant to us.”— Los Angeles Times “Stunning . . . Holland keeps his narrative moving at chariot-race speed.”— Newsday In 49 B.C., the seven hundred fifth year since the founding of Rome, Julius Caesar crossed a small border river called the Rubicon and plunged Rome into cataclysmic civil war. Tom Holland’s enthralling account tells the story of Caesar’s generation, witness to the twilight of the Republic and its bloody transformation into an empire. From Cicero, Spartacus, and Brutus, to Cleopatra, Virgil, and Augustus, here are some of the most legendary figures in history brought thrillingly to life. Combining verve and freshness with scrupulous scholarship, Rubicon is not only an engrossing history of this pivotal era but a uniquely resonant portrait of a great civilization in all its extremes of self-sacrifice and rivalry, decadence and catastrophe, intrigue, war, and world-shaking ambition.

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The Fall of Carthage - Adrian Goldsworthy Cover Art

The Fall of Carthage

The Fall of Carthage The Punic Wars 265-146BC by Adrian Goldsworthy

The struggle between Rome and Carthage in the Punic Wars was arguably the greatest and most desperate conflict of antiquity. The forces involved and the casualties suffered by both sides were far greater than in any wars fought before the modern era, while the eventual outcome had far-reaching consequences for the history of the Western World, namely the ascendancy of Rome. An epic of war and battle, this is also the story of famous generals and leaders: Hannibal, Fabius Maximus, Scipio Africanus, and his grandson Scipio Aemilianus, who would finally bring down the walls of Carthage.

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Those Who Are About to Die - Harry Sidebottom Cover Art

Those Who Are About to Die

Those Who Are About to Die A Day in the Life of a Roman Gladiator by Harry Sidebottom

ONE OF THE ECONOMIST 'S BEST BOOKS OF 2025 • See ancient Rome through the eyes of a gladiator—from the evening before the games at the Colosseum to the evening after "A grippingly original way of making the alien world of the Roman Amphitheatre both accessible and comprehensible." —Tom Holland, co-host of The Rest is History What did a gladiator feel when he stepped out onto the sand of the Colosseum, his life in the balance? What ran through the minds of the masses there to witness his likely execution? And how did this bloodthirsty ritual come to exist in the first place? In Those Who Are About to Die, Harry Sidebottom pulls us into the arena, and into the homes and forums of ancient Rome, taking the reader on an eye-opening, twenty-four-hour tour through Roman life at the height of the gladiatorial games, from the first century BC to the second century AD. We follow the gladiators through the schools ( ludi ) where they trained, watch in awe as the massive event unfolds—from the gambling at the pre-festival dinner, to the dawn rush to get a seat in the arena, to the resounding music, the elaborate stage sets, and, yes, the public executions that served as lunch-break entertainment—and we unlearn all the bogus movie tropes (gladiators did not have ripped bods; they were kept fleshy so they’d bleed more). Broken down by time of day— Vesper, Prima Vigilia, Secunda Vigilia, up through the following sunset ( Solis Occasus )— Those Who Are About to Die offers illuminating insights into every aspect of Roman life and thought: their social mores and hierarchies, their feelings about death and sex and violence, and the myths and dreams that fueled the spectacle of the Games.

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Killing Jesus - Bill O'Reilly & Martin Dugard Cover Art

Killing Jesus

Killing Jesus A History by Bill O'Reilly & Martin Dugard

Millions of readers have thrilled to bestselling authors Bill O'Reilly and historian Martin Dugard's Killing Kennedy and Killing Lincoln , page-turning works of nonfiction that have changed the way we read history. The basis for the 2015 television film available on streaming. Now the iconic anchor of The O'Reilly Factor details the events leading up to the murder of the most influential man in history: Jesus of Nazareth. Nearly two thousand years after this beloved and controversial young revolutionary was brutally killed by Roman soldiers, more than 2.2 billion human beings attempt to follow his teachings and believe he is God. Killing Jesus will take readers inside Jesus's life, recounting the seismic political and historical events that made his death inevitable - and changed the world forever.

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The Ark Before Noah - Irving Finkel Cover Art

The Ark Before Noah

The Ark Before Noah Decoding the Story of the Flood by Irving Finkel

The recent translation of a Babylonian tablet launches a groundbreaking investigation into one of the most famous stories in the world, challenging the way we look at ancient history.   Since the Victorian period, it has been understood that the story of Noah, iconic in the Book of Genesis, and a central motif in Judaism, Christianity and Islam, derives from a much older story that existed centuries before in ancient Babylon. But the relationship between the Babylonian and biblical traditions was shrouded in mystery. Then, in 2009, Irving Finkel, a curator at the British Museum and a world authority on ancient Mesopotamia, found himself playing detective when a member of the public arrived at the museum with an intriguing cuneiform tablet from a family collection. Not only did the tablet reveal a new version of the Babylonian Flood Story; the ancient poet described the size and completely unexpected shape of the ark, and gave detailed boat building specifications. Decoding this ancient message wedge by cuneiform wedge, Dr. Finkel discovered where the Babylonians believed the ark came to rest and developed a new explanation of how the old story ultimately found its way into the Bible. In The Ark Before Noah , Dr. Finkel takes us on an adventurous voyage of discovery, opening the door to an enthralling world of ancient voices and new meanings.

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Alexander the Great - Anthony Everitt Cover Art

Alexander the Great

Alexander the Great His Life and His Mysterious Death by Anthony Everitt

What can we learn from the stunning rise and mysterious death of the ancient world’s greatest conqueror? An acclaimed biographer reconstructs the life of Alexander the Great in this magisterial revisionist portrait. “[An] infectious sense of narrative momentum . . . Its energy is unflagging, including the verve with which it tackles that teased final mystery about the specific cause of Alexander’s death.”— The Christian Science Monitor More than two millennia have passed since Alexander the Great built an empire that stretched to every corner of the ancient world, from the backwater kingdom of Macedonia to the Hellenic world, Persia, and ultimately to India—all before his untimely death at age thirty-three. Alexander believed that his empire would stop only when he reached the Pacific Ocean. But stories of both real and legendary events from his life have kept him evergreen in our imaginations with a legacy that has meant something different to every era: in the Middle Ages he became an exemplar of knightly chivalry, he was a star of Renaissance paintings, and by the early twentieth century he’d even come to resemble an English gentleman. But who was he in his own time? In Alexander the Great , Anthony Everitt judges Alexander’s life against the criteria of his own age and considers all his contradictions. We meet the Macedonian prince who was naturally inquisitive and fascinated by science and exploration, as well as the man who enjoyed the arts and used Homer’s great epic the Iliad as a bible. As his empire grew, Alexander exhibited respect for the traditions of his new subjects and careful judgment in administering rule over his vast territory. But his career also had a dark side. An inveterate conqueror who in his short life built the largest empire up to that point in history, Alexander glorified war and was known to commit acts of remarkable cruelty. As debate continues about the meaning of his life, Alexander's death remains a  mystery. Did he die of natural causes—felled by a fever—or did his marshals, angered by his tyrannical behavior, kill him? An explanation of his death can lie only in what we know of his life, and Everitt ventures to solve that puzzle, offering an ending to Alexander’s story that has eluded so many for so long.

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The Rise of the Roman Empire - Polybius & Ian Scott-Kilvert Cover Art

The Rise of the Roman Empire

The Rise of the Roman Empire by Polybius & Ian Scott-Kilvert

The Greek statesman Polybius ( c .200–118 BC) wrote his account of the relentless growth of the Roman Empire in order to help his fellow countrymen understand how their world came to be dominated by Rome. Opening with the Punic War in 264 BC, he vividly records the critical stages of Roman expansion: its campaigns throughout the Mediterranean, the temporary setbacks inflicted by Hannibal and the final destruction of Carthage. An active participant of the politics of his time as well as a friend of many prominent Roman citizens, Polybius drew on many eyewitness accounts in writing this cornerstone work of history.

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Rhetoric - Aristotle Cover Art

Rhetoric

Rhetoric (Illustrated Edition) by Aristotle

“Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence” – attributed to Aristotle Aristotle was the most famous and influential Greek philosopher in the 2,000 years after he lived, and he left his mark on everything from politics to the scientific method for the West.  Still, his most famous work is Rhetoric , his preeminent treatise on the art of persuasion. Rhetoric seems to have been a collection of notes written by Aristotle's students about his lectures, but nevertheless it has served as the foundation for the study of rhetoric ever since.  Aristotle is widely credited with being the forbearer of the study of the art of rhetoric.  This edition of Rhetoric is illustrated with pictures of the famous philosopher. 

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Emperor of Rome - Mary Beard Cover Art

Emperor of Rome

Emperor of Rome Ruling the Ancient World by Mary Beard

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Best Books of 2023: New Yorker, The Economist, Smithsonian Most Anticipated Books of Fall: Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, TODAY, Literary Hub, and Publishers Weekly "A vivid way to re-examine what we know, and don’t, about life at the top.... Emperor of Rome is a masterly group portrait, an invitation to think skeptically but not contemptuously of a familiar civilization." —Kyle Harper, Wall Street Journal A sweeping account of the social and political world of the Roman emperors by “the world’s most famous classicist” (Guardian). In her international bestseller SPQR, Mary Beard told the thousand-year story of ancient Rome, from its slightly shabby Iron Age origins to its reign as the undisputed hegemon of the Mediterranean. Now, drawing on more than thirty years of teaching and writing about Roman history, Beard turns to the emperors who ruled the Roman Empire, beginning with Julius Caesar (assassinated 44 BCE) and taking us through the nearly three centuries—and some thirty emperors—that separate him from the boy-king Alexander Severus (assassinated 235 CE). Yet Emperor of Rome is not your typical chronological account of Roman rulers, one emperor after another: the mad Caligula, the monster Nero, the philosopher Marcus Aurelius. Instead, Beard asks different, often larger and more probing questions: What power did emperors actually have? Was the Roman palace really so bloodstained? What kind of jokes did Augustus tell? And for that matter, what really happened, for example, between the emperor Hadrian and his beloved Antinous? Effortlessly combining the epic with the quotidian, Beard tracks the emperor down at home, at the races, on his travels, even on his way to heaven. Along the way, Beard explores Roman fictions of imperial power, overturning many of the assumptions that we hold as gospel, not the least of them the perception that emperors one and all were orchestrators of extreme brutality and cruelty. Here Beard introduces us to the emperor’s wives and lovers, rivals and slaves, court jesters and soldiers, and the ordinary people who pressed begging letters into his hand—whose chamber pot disputes were adjudicated by Augustus, and whose budgets were approved by Vespasian, himself the son of a tax collector. With its finely nuanced portrayal of sex, class, and politics, Emperor of Rome goes directly to the heart of Roman fantasies (and our own) about what it was to be Roman at its richest, most luxurious, most extreme, most powerful, and most deadly, offering an account of Roman history as it has never been presented before.

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Soldier of Rome: The Centurion - James Mace Cover Art

Soldier of Rome: The Centurion

Soldier of Rome: The Centurion by James Mace

Betrayal and Devastation In the year 28 A.D. the people of Frisia, a previously loyal province, were suffering under the oppression of the Roman magistrate, a former Centurion named Olennius. So blinded by greed had he become, that he taxed the populous well beyond their means to produce. Now impoverished and risking starvation, the Frisians did the unspeakable and sought open rebellion as their only means of survival. The Emperor Tiberius, now living in self-imposed isolation on the isle of Capri, is deeply troubled upon hearing that such a staunchly loyal province would seek to throw off the rule of Rome. Nevertheless, he orders the mobilization of the Army of the Rhine to suppress the Frisians back into docile submission, never knowing the real reason as to the origin of the rebellion. As the Twentieth Legion marches north into Frisia on its first major campaign in eight years, Centurion Artorius finds himself facing his first major battle since taking over his Century. Years of relative peace, combined with the mass discharges of many of his veteran soldiers, have left the ranks filled with a number of young and inexperienced legionaries. For over a third of his men this will be their first action. The Frisians, in their desperation, know that they face death either by starvation in peace or slaughter on the battlefield. For Artorius and his legionaries the crucible of war will end in heartbreak; for only after the devastation of battle does the truth arise.

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Soldier of Rome: The Last Campaign - James Mace Cover Art

Soldier of Rome: The Last Campaign

Soldier of Rome: The Last Campaign by James Mace

**The Final Conquest** Following the assassination of Emperor Gaius Caligula in 41 A.D., his uncle, Claudius, assumed the imperial throne. After establishing his legitimacy and stabilizing his position with the Roman Senate and people, he looks to legitimize himself militarily. His eyes turn towards Britannia; the elusive isle that even Julius Caesar failed to conquer. Far from being unknown to the rest of the world, various Britannic peoples have maintained trade relations with the continent, and a few of the tribal kingdoms have even formed alliances with Rome that extend back decades. Constant warfare, however, has left the isle in a state of perpetual instability. When several allies call upon Rome for assistance in their volatile struggles, Claudius seizes the opportunity to finish what the Divine Julius started almost a hundred years before. In Ostia, Centurion Artorius spends his days as a police commissioner, while only holding an honorary posting with the legions. Soon after Claudius' ascension, however, he is recalled to active service with his former legion, the Twentieth Valeria, where his peers proclaim him as the new master centurion. It has been generations since the empire expanded its borders via conquest, and Artorius readies his men to spearhead a massive invasion force in what he knows will be his last campaign.

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The Closing of the Western Mind - Charles Freeman Cover Art

The Closing of the Western Mind

The Closing of the Western Mind The Rise of Faith and the Fall of Reason by Charles Freeman

A radical and powerful reappraisal of the impact of Constantine’s adoption of Christianity on the later Roman world, and on the subsequent development both of Christianity and of Western civilization. When the Emperor Contstantine converted to Christianity in 368 AD, he changed the course of European history in ways that continue to have repercussions to the present day. Adopting those aspects of the religion that suited his purposes, he turned Rome on a course from the relatively open, tolerant and pluralistic civilization of the Hellenistic world, towards a culture that was based on the rule of fixed authority, whether that of the Bible, or the writings of Ptolemy in astronomy and of Galen and Hippocrates in medicine. Only a thousand years later, with the advent of the Renaissance and the emergence of modern science, did Europe begin to free itself from the effects of Constantine's decision, yet the effects of his establishment of Christianity as a state religion remain with us, in many respects, today. Brilliantly wide-ranging and ambitious, this is a major work of history.

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Soldier of Rome: Heir to Rebellion - James Mace Cover Art

Soldier of Rome: Heir to Rebellion

Soldier of Rome: Heir to Rebellion by James Mace

A year has passed since the end of the Gallic rebellion of Sacrovir and Florus. Retribution has been exacted and the province is at peace once more. And yet there are some who escaped Rome's justice. They are led by a man whose heart burns with hate; an heir to rebellion. Knowing that there can be no victory against the legions; his vengeance can only be wrought through terror and murder. The Gallic city of Lugdunum will be the first to taste his wrath.The city of Lugdunum flourishes; the Twentieth Legion's Third Cohort having been stationed within the city since the end of the Sacrovir Revolt. For Centurion Proculus and his legionaries their comfortable assignment will soon come unraveled as a series of grisly murders looks to upset the order of the city. Sergeant Artorius inadvertently finds himself at the center of the search to find these mysterious killers before they undermine the city's faith in the protection of the legions; a search that will lead him on a journey into the darkest corners of what lurks in a broken man's wicked soul.

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The Sumerians - Samuel Noah Kramer Cover Art

The Sumerians

The Sumerians Their History, Culture, and Character by Samuel Noah Kramer

"A readable and up-to-date introduction to a most fascinating culture" from a world-renowned Sumerian scholar ( American Journal of Archaeology ).   The Sumerians, the pragmatic and gifted people who preceded the Semites in the land first known as Sumer and later as Babylonia, created what was probably the first high civilization in the history of man, spanning the fifth to the second millenniums B.C. This book is an unparalleled compendium of what is known about them. Professor Kramer communicates his enthusiasm for his subject as he outlines the history of the Sumerian civilization and describes their cities, religion, literature, education, scientific achievements, social structure, and psychology. Finally, he considers the legacy of Sumer to the ancient and modern world. "An uncontested authority on the civilization of Sumer, Professor Kramer writes with grace and urbanity." — Library Journal

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Delphi Complete Works of Diodorus Siculus - Diodorus Siculus Cover Art

Delphi Complete Works of Diodorus Siculus

Delphi Complete Works of Diodorus Siculus by Diodorus Siculus

The Greek historian Diodorus Siculus composed the monumental universal history ‘Bibliotheca historica’, which comprises the mythic history of the non-Hellenic and Hellenic tribes. Diodorus’ great work spans the destruction of Troy, the glories of Alexander the Great, the history and culture of Ancient Egypt and the near East and the triumphs of the Roman Republic. The Ancient Classics series provides eReaders with the wisdom of the Classical world, with both English translations and the original Greek texts.  This comprehensive eBook presents the complete extant works of Diodorus Siculus, with beautiful illustrations, informative introductions and the usual Delphi bonus material. (Version 1) * Beautifully illustrated with images relating to Diodorus' life and works * Features the complete extant works of Diodorus, in both English translation and the original Latin * Includes translations previously appearing in Loeb Classical Library editions of Diodorus’ works * Excellent formatting of the texts * Easily locate the books or works you want to read with individual contents tables * Includes Diodorus' rare fragments, first time in digital print * Provides a special dual English and Greek text of the first five complete books, allowing readers to compare the sections paragraph by paragraph – ideal for students * Features a bonus biography – discover Diodorus' ancient world * Scholarly ordering of texts into chronological order and literary genres Please note: some Kindle software programs cannot display Greek characters correctly; however the characters do display correctly on Kindle devices. Please visit www.delphiclassics.com to browse through our range of exciting titles CONTENTS: The Translations THE LIBRARY OF HISTORY The Greek Text CONTENTS OF THE GREEK TEXT The Dual Text DUAL GREEK AND ENGLISH TEXT The Biography INTRODUCTION TO DIODORUS SICULUS by C. H. Oldfather Please visit www.delphiclassics.com to browse through our range of exciting titles

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The History of Jerusalem - Alan J Potter Cover Art

The History of Jerusalem

The History of Jerusalem Its Origins to the Early Middle Ages by Alan J Potter

Fascinating revelations of the parts played by David, Solomon, Judas Maccabee, Pompey, Cleopatra, Justinian, and others in the making of the city. Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world, with evidence of an original settlement dating back more than 4,000 years. Vitally important was the supply of water provided by the Gihon Spring, in a land that normally experienced rainfall only from November to March. Since then this Middle Eastern city has been attacked and devastated on numerous occasions. Former rulers include King David, who established the City of David, and his son Solomon, who expanded Jerusalem and built the first Great Temple on Mount Moriah. Destruction 2,600 years ago saw most of the inhabitants exiled to Babylon, but as the Jewish diaspora returned, the Temple and city were rebuilt. Wars between the Ptolemaic and Seleucid successors of Alexander the Great seemed endless, but the resistance of the Maccabee brothers eventually led to the glorious reign of the Hasmonean kings. Roman interference and the enforcement of the despotic Herod the Great as king led inevitably to the catastrophic Jewish/Roman wars, and Jerusalem was once again destroyed. Christianity eventually facilitated a reinvigorated Byzantine Jerusalem, which became one of the world's most beautiful cities. The bubonic plague was survived, but a new low saw the Persians sack the city before Heraclius triumphantly returned Christ's True Cross to Jerusalem. The History of Jerusalem: Its Origins to the Early Middle Ages is the first of its kind to examine in detail the rich history of Jerusalem during antiquity up to the year 630 CE. This in-depth account goes further than other volumes in terms of the breadth and scale of events covered, and offers an unbiased but critical appraisal of the colorful history of Jerusalem and the surrounding areas.

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The Anabasis of Alexander - Arrian Cover Art

The Anabasis of Alexander

The Anabasis of Alexander by Arrian

The Anabasis is by far the fullest surviving account of Alexander's conquest of the Persian empire. It is primarily a military history, reflecting the content of Arrian's model, Xenophon's Anabasis; the work begins with Alexander's accession to the Macedonian throne in 336 BC, and has nothing to say about Alexander's early life (in contrast, say, to Plutarch's Life of Alexander). Nor does Arrian aim to provide a complete history of the Greek-speaking world during Alexander's reign. Arrian's chief sources in writing the Anabasis were the lost contemporary histories of the campaign by Ptolemy and Aristobulus and, for his later books, Nearchus. One of Arrian's main aims in writing his history seems to have been to correct the standard "Vulgate" narrative of Alexander's reign that was current in his own day, primarily associated with the lost writings of the historian Cleitarchus.

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Delphi Complete Works of Strabo - Geography (Illustrated) - Strabo of Amaseia Cover Art

Delphi Complete Works of Strabo - Geography (Illustrated)

Delphi Complete Works of Strabo - Geography (Illustrated) by Strabo of Amaseia

An Asiatic Greek in the time of Augustus, Strabo was a keen voyager that explored the four corners of the ancient world and compiled an important ‘Geography’ in seventeen books on his travels. Offering a window into the lost world of classical Rome and Greece, Strabo’s ‘Geography’ is a major source for the study of ancient geography, while providing important information on Greek cultic history and early theories of the nature of the world.  Delphi’s Ancient Classics series provides eReaders with the wisdom of the Classical world, with both English translations and the original Greek texts.  This comprehensive eBook presents Strabo’s complete extant ‘Geography’, with beautiful illustrations, informative introductions and the usual Delphi bonus material. (Version 1) * Beautifully illustrated with images relating to Strabo's life and ‘Geography’ * Features the complete extant works of Strabo, in both English translation and the original Greek * Concise introduction to the ‘Geography’ * Includes H. C. Hamilton and W. Falconer’s translation previously appearing in Bohn Classical Library edition of Strabo * Excellent formatting of the texts * Easily locate the sections you want to read with individual contents tables * Provides a special dual English and Greek text, allowing readers to compare the sections paragraph by paragraph – ideal for students * Features a bonus biography – discover Strabo's ancient world * Scholarly ordering of texts into chronological order and literary genres Please visit www.delphiclassics.com to explore our range of Ancient Classics titles or buy the entire series as a Super Set CONTENTS: The Translation THE GEOGRAPHY The Greek Text CONTENTS OF THE GREEK TEXT The Dual Text DUAL GREEK AND ENGLISH TEXT The Biography INTRODUCTION TO STRABO by Horace Leonard Jones Please visit www.delphiclassics.com to browse through our range of exciting titles