A solid introduction, 10 Jan 2005
'The Romans: From Village to Empire' is a new book by the Oxford University Press meant to be a companion to their earlier volume on the Greek civilisation. This text, written by scholars Mary T. Boatwright, Daniel J. Gargola, and Richard J.A. Talbert, in intended for several audiences - those with a general interest in history, beginning undergraduate students in historical survey courses, those with interest in archaeology, culture, and military events, and those who want a better understanding of the secular and sacred empire that preceded but gave rise to the current world of Christendom and European nation-states. The book is not one that is heavy on details, but is very well documented and annotated, with pictures, maps and drawings complementing most pages. Maps are generously provided throughout, including maps on the front and back binding pages.

The authors do not limit themselves to a particular historical method - sometimes the events will be see primarily through the biographical sketches of particular people (there are some historical periods for which the only surviving text evidence is later biographical writing about key figures), sometimes the events will be recreated through interpretation of archaeological finds, and sometimes on analogy and speculation based on other contemporary settlements and writers, although not Roman. The authors make clear at many points in the text that our textual evidence is most certainly a biased report - historians in the ancient world did not strive to write objective history as it is considered today, but rather often wrote with a specific intention, often the glorification of Rome or some family or person in Rome. The authors cite the Greek influence on Roman historical production - there were three primary ways to write a history: one, concentrate on a particular significant event or person; two, write a complete history of the city from its foundation to the present; and three, write a comprehensive history of the whole known world. Most Roman historians opted for the first two; the histories of founding-to-present done by different hands at different times highlights the difficulty of working with history, when events are so far removed from the author's time. The conflicting and contradictory tales of Rome's early days only add to the frustration of knowing the history before the Republic and Empire.

Rome did at one point have a king - the authors list the seven kings according to Varro's list, including their dates (Romulus, from 753 BC to Tarquin, who died in 510 BC). These dates and identities are far from uncontroversial, as are the figures who follow. Some consuls, tribunes and other leaders are well-known names because of the significant events and accomplishments with which their names are attached, but the political instability of a growing city-state with (for most of this early history) strict safeguards against tyranny that include one-year, usually non-renewable terms of office make for a confusing narrative. There were more likely more consuls in Rome during any particular century from the end of the kingly era to the time of Julius Caesar than there have been Monarchs of Britain and Presidents of the United States combined. Add to this confusion that they often came from the same inter-related families and thus bore the same names, and one gets a huge task of unraveling the historical record.

Boatwright, Gargola and Talbert are to be given great credit for seeing through the task of making the text not only understandable, but enjoyable. In their thirteen chapters, they trace an historical pattern in chronological order, devoting each chapter to a period roughly 50 - 100 years in length. The first chapter looks at the state of early Italy generally, with its indigenous populations (Etruscans, Latins, Campanians, etc.) as well as the colonisers (Greeks, Phoenicians, etc.). The second chapter deals with the beginnings of urbanisation and the formation of city-states, including the early shift from kingdom to republican form of government for Rome. Rome's expansion beyond its own territory, beyond the Latin province and beyond Italy is described not as an inevitable march, but rather one of fits and starts, with set-backs and improbable happenings. How Rome's influence as an imperial power rather than simply as a conqueror in various parts of the Mediterranean world is also described in good detail. Wherever possible, the authors have brought in information about the various classes and orders of people, both in Rome, in Roman communities outside of Rome, and in provinces and subject states, to show the importance and the concerns for the plebs, the 'ordinary' citizens (and often non-citizens) of the city and empire.

One will learn about the key issues here (the Punic Wars, Augustus' consolidation, Diocletian's Tetrarchy, etc.), key individuals (Sulla, Pompey, Augustus, Hadrian, etc.), and general trends (the rise and decline of the Senate, the uneasy balance of religion and secular concerns from the start, etc.) - one will also learn new things here, often overlooked in histories that concentrate just on the powerful and 'most noteworthy' people.

The book is well indexed, useful and thorough. The appendix material also includes a brief glossary/biography listing of principle ancient authors, a general glossary of terminology, and a twenty-page timeline following four primary strands: West, East, Rome & Italy, and Cultural & Other Landmarks. While the timeline begins with the emergence of agriculture in 4000 BC (the authors use the BC - AD designation rather than the more general BCE - CE form), it really begins in earnest about 1000 - 750 BC, with the foundation of cities, including Rome, Carthage, and other city-states. The authors also use pull-quote boxes to draw original source material quotations to support the general historical narrative being presented, which is very effective in its presentation.

A solid introduction, 10 Jan 2005
'The Romans: From Village to Empire' is a new book by the Oxford University Press meant to be a companion to their earlier volume on the Greek civilisation. This text, written by scholars Mary T. Boatwright, Daniel J. Gargola, and Richard J.A. Talbert, in intended for several audiences - those with a general interest in history, beginning undergraduate students in historical survey courses, those with interest in archaeology, culture, and military events, and those who want a better understanding of the secular and sacred empire that preceded but gave rise to the current world of Christendom and European nation-states. The book is not one that is heavy on details, but is very well documented and annotated, with pictures, maps and drawings complementing most pages. Maps are generously provided throughout, including maps on the front and back binding pages.

The authors do not limit themselves to a particular historical method - sometimes the events will be see primarily through the biographical sketches of particular people (there are some historical periods for which the only surviving text evidence is later biographical writing about key figures), sometimes the events will be recreated through interpretation of archaeological finds, and sometimes on analogy and speculation based on other contemporary settlements and writers, although not Roman. The authors make clear at many points in the text that our textual evidence is most certainly a biased report - historians in the ancient world did not strive to write objective history as it is considered today, but rather often wrote with a specific intention, often the glorification of Rome or some family or person in Rome. The authors cite the Greek influence on Roman historical production - there were three primary ways to write a history: one, concentrate on a particular significant event or person; two, write a complete history of the city from its foundation to the present; and three, write a comprehensive history of the whole known world. Most Roman historians opted for the first two; the histories of founding-to-present done by different hands at different times highlights the difficulty of working with history, when events are so far removed from the author's time. The conflicting and contradictory tales of Rome's early days only add to the frustration of knowing the history before the Republic and Empire.

Rome did at one point have a king - the authors list the seven kings according to Varro's list, including their dates (Romulus, from 753 BC to Tarquin, who died in 510 BC). These dates and identities are far from uncontroversial, as are the figures who follow. Some consuls, tribunes and other leaders are well-known names because of the significant events and accomplishments with which their names are attached, but the political instability of a growing city-state with (for most of this early history) strict safeguards against tyranny that include one-year, usually non-renewable terms of office make for a confusing narrative. There were more likely more consuls in Rome during any particular century from the end of the kingly era to the time of Julius Caesar than there have been Monarchs of Britain and Presidents of the United States combined. Add to this confusion that they often came from the same inter-related families and thus bore the same names, and one gets a huge task of unraveling the historical record.

Boatwright, Gargola and Talbert are to be given great credit for seeing through the task of making the text not only understandable, but enjoyable. In their thirteen chapters, they trace an historical pattern in chronological order, devoting each chapter to a period roughly 50 - 100 years in length. The first chapter looks at the state of early Italy generally, with its indigenous populations (Etruscans, Latins, Campanians, etc.) as well as the colonisers (Greeks, Phoenicians, etc.). The second chapter deals with the beginnings of urbanisation and the formation of city-states, including the early shift from kingdom to republican form of government for Rome. Rome's expansion beyond its own territory, beyond the Latin province and beyond Italy is described not as an inevitable march, but rather one of fits and starts, with set-backs and improbable happenings. How Rome's influence as an imperial power rather than simply as a conqueror in various parts of the Mediterranean world is also described in good detail. Wherever possible, the authors have brought in information about the various classes and orders of people, both in Rome, in Roman communities outside of Rome, and in provinces and subject states, to show the importance and the concerns for the plebs, the 'ordinary' citizens (and often non-citizens) of the city and empire.

One will learn about the key issues here (the Punic Wars, Augustus' consolidation, Diocletian's Tetrarchy, etc.), key individuals (Sulla, Pompey, Augustus, Hadrian, etc.), and general trends (the rise and decline of the Senate, the uneasy balance of religion and secular concerns from the start, etc.) - one will also learn new things here, often overlooked in histories that concentrate just on the powerful and 'most noteworthy' people.

The book is well indexed, useful and thorough. The appendix material also includes a brief glossary/biography listing of principle ancient authors, a general glossary of terminology, and a twenty-page timeline following four primary strands: West, East, Rome & Italy, and Cultural & Other Landmarks. While the timeline begins with the emergence of agriculture in 4000 BC (the authors use the BC - AD designation rather than the more general BCE - CE form), it really begins in earnest about 1000 - 750 BC, with the foundation of cities, including Rome, Carthage, and other city-states. The authors also use pull-quote boxes to draw original source material quotations to support the general historical narrative being presented, which is very effective in its presentation.

For serious Academics only, 28 Oct 2007
As a general non academic history reader, this is real heavy going
Dull and hard work
For graduate students only
Go elswhere if just want an interesting read about Roman Britain

What did the Romans ever do for us then?, 29 Jul 2001
When I was first recommended this book by my lecturer, as opposed to some of the more established works on Roman Britain, I have to say I was a little sceptical about this short volume. However, on reading, I was fantastically surprised. Millett does not simply repeat what earlier writers have said, but introduces new strands of thought, most especially on the so-called "Romanization" of Britain. Yet this is not a book which is simply spouting wacky, new ideas. The author ensures that the reader is given a basic knowledge of Roman Britain, in its many forms: political, cultural, artistic. Although I don't agree with Millett entirely (and this should not be seen as a criticism; indeed, his theories led myself to think and research much more deeply into the subject), this book was invaluable when I came to revision for both the clarity of the issues and its length (144 pages instead of the thousands in some other books is a godsend for a student, I can assure you!). Indeed, I would recommend it to anyone wanting easy and quick access to the material and debates arising from Roman Britain.

A solid introduction, 10 Jan 2005
'The Romans: From Village to Empire' is a new book by the Oxford University Press meant to be a companion to their earlier volume on the Greek civilisation. This text, written by scholars Mary T. Boatwright, Daniel J. Gargola, and Richard J.A. Talbert, in intended for several audiences - those with a general interest in history, beginning undergraduate students in historical survey courses, those with interest in archaeology, culture, and military events, and those who want a better understanding of the secular and sacred empire that preceded but gave rise to the current world of Christendom and European nation-states. The book is not one that is heavy on details, but is very well documented and annotated, with pictures, maps and drawings complementing most pages. Maps are generously provided throughout, including maps on the front and back binding pages.

The authors do not limit themselves to a particular historical method - sometimes the events will be see primarily through the biographical sketches of particular people (there are some historical periods for which the only surviving text evidence is later biographical writing about key figures), sometimes the events will be recreated through interpretation of archaeological finds, and sometimes on analogy and speculation based on other contemporary settlements and writers, although not Roman. The authors make clear at many points in the text that our textual evidence is most certainly a biased report - historians in the ancient world did not strive to write objective history as it is considered today, but rather often wrote with a specific intention, often the glorification of Rome or some family or person in Rome. The authors cite the Greek influence on Roman historical production - there were three primary ways to write a history: one, concentrate on a particular significant event or person; two, write a complete history of the city from its foundation to the present; and three, write a comprehensive history of the whole known world. Most Roman historians opted for the first two; the histories of founding-to-present done by different hands at different times highlights the difficulty of working with history, when events are so far removed from the author's time. The conflicting and contradictory tales of Rome's early days only add to the frustration of knowing the history before the Republic and Empire.

Rome did at one point have a king - the authors list the seven kings according to Varro's list, including their dates (Romulus, from 753 BC to Tarquin, who died in 510 BC). These dates and identities are far from uncontroversial, as are the figures who follow. Some consuls, tribunes and other leaders are well-known names because of the significant events and accomplishments with which their names are attached, but the political instability of a growing city-state with (for most of this early history) strict safeguards against tyranny that include one-year, usually non-renewable terms of office make for a confusing narrative. There were more likely more consuls in Rome during any particular century from the end of the kingly era to the time of Julius Caesar than there have been Monarchs of Britain and Presidents of the United States combined. Add to this confusion that they often came from the same inter-related families and thus bore the same names, and one gets a huge task of unraveling the historical record.

Boatwright, Gargola and Talbert are to be given great credit for seeing through the task of making the text not only understandable, but enjoyable. In their thirteen chapters, they trace an historical pattern in chronological order, devoting each chapter to a period roughly 50 - 100 years in length. The first chapter looks at the state of early Italy generally, with its indigenous populations (Etruscans, Latins, Campanians, etc.) as well as the colonisers (Greeks, Phoenicians, etc.). The second chapter deals with the beginnings of urbanisation and the formation of city-states, including the early shift from kingdom to republican form of government for Rome. Rome's expansion beyond its own territory, beyond the Latin province and beyond Italy is described not as an inevitable march, but rather one of fits and starts, with set-backs and improbable happenings. How Rome's influence as an imperial power rather than simply as a conqueror in various parts of the Mediterranean world is also described in good detail. Wherever possible, the authors have brought in information about the various classes and orders of people, both in Rome, in Roman communities outside of Rome, and in provinces and subject states, to show the importance and the concerns for the plebs, the 'ordinary' citizens (and often non-citizens) of the city and empire.

One will learn about the key issues here (the Punic Wars, Augustus' consolidation, Diocletian's Tetrarchy, etc.), key individuals (Sulla, Pompey, Augustus, Hadrian, etc.), and general trends (the rise and decline of the Senate, the uneasy balance of religion and secular concerns from the start, etc.) - one will also learn new things here, often overlooked in histories that concentrate just on the powerful and 'most noteworthy' people.

The book is well indexed, useful and thorough. The appendix material also includes a brief glossary/biography listing of principle ancient authors, a general glossary of terminology, and a twenty-page timeline following four primary strands: West, East, Rome & Italy, and Cultural & Other Landmarks. While the timeline begins with the emergence of agriculture in 4000 BC (the authors use the BC - AD designation rather than the more general BCE - CE form), it really begins in earnest about 1000 - 750 BC, with the foundation of cities, including Rome, Carthage, and other city-states. The authors also use pull-quote boxes to draw original source material quotations to support the general historical narrative being presented, which is very effective in its presentation.

For serious Academics only, 28 Oct 2007
As a general non academic history reader, this is real heavy going
Dull and hard work
For graduate students only
Go elswhere if just want an interesting read about Roman Britain

What did the Romans ever do for us then?, 29 Jul 2001
When I was first recommended this book by my lecturer, as opposed to some of the more established works on Roman Britain, I have to say I was a little sceptical about this short volume. However, on reading, I was fantastically surprised. Millett does not simply repeat what earlier writers have said, but introduces new strands of thought, most especially on the so-called "Romanization" of Britain. Yet this is not a book which is simply spouting wacky, new ideas. The author ensures that the reader is given a basic knowledge of Roman Britain, in its many forms: political, cultural, artistic. Although I don't agree with Millett entirely (and this should not be seen as a criticism; indeed, his theories led myself to think and research much more deeply into the subject), this book was invaluable when I came to revision for both the clarity of the issues and its length (144 pages instead of the thousands in some other books is a godsend for a student, I can assure you!). Indeed, I would recommend it to anyone wanting easy and quick access to the material and debates arising from Roman Britain.

Recounting the making of a city, 03 Mar 2006
A fascinating reading, "Rome: Profile of a City, 312-1308" reconstructs the way in which events and passions reshaped the city of Rome after the end of the Roman Empire, from the insertion of Byzantine buildings and churches in the urban tissue to the progressive release of land from monasteries to build the medieval Rome, from the refusal of St. John in Lateran as symbol of Christianity to the increasing favour of pilgrims and local people for the holy sites of St. Peter's and St. Paul's. Roman ruins became the main walls of early Middle Ages buildings. Ancient temples turned into marketplaces. Towers flourished everywhere - for aggression and defence - even one (now destroyed) to spy into the Palace of Popes at St. John in Lateran. Monasteries enlarged immoderately in territory and power, then scaled down giving up land for building the core of the historical centre of present-day Rome - from Circo Massimo to Piazza del Popolo. Krautheimer's narration helps readers regain the historical reason behind streets, churches and buildings of pre-Renaissance Rome.

A solid introduction, 10 Jan 2005
'The Romans: From Village to Empire' is a new book by the Oxford University Press meant to be a companion to their earlier volume on the Greek civilisation. This text, written by scholars Mary T. Boatwright, Daniel J. Gargola, and Richard J.A. Talbert, in intended for several audiences - those with a general interest in history, beginning undergraduate students in historical survey courses, those with interest in archaeology, culture, and military events, and those who want a better understanding of the secular and sacred empire that preceded but gave rise to the current world of Christendom and European nation-states. The book is not one that is heavy on details, but is very well documented and annotated, with pictures, maps and drawings complementing most pages. Maps are generously provided throughout, including maps on the front and back binding pages.

The authors do not limit themselves to a particular historical method - sometimes the events will be see primarily through the biographical sketches of particular people (there are some historical periods for which the only surviving text evidence is later biographical writing about key figures), sometimes the events will be recreated through interpretation of archaeological finds, and sometimes on analogy and speculation based on other contemporary settlements and writers, although not Roman. The authors make clear at many points in the text that our textual evidence is most certainly a biased report - historians in the ancient world did not strive to write objective history as it is considered today, but rather often wrote with a specific intention, often the glorification of Rome or some family or person in Rome. The authors cite the Greek influence on Roman historical production - there were three primary ways to write a history: one, concentrate on a particular significant event or person; two, write a complete history of the city from its foundation to the present; and three, write a comprehensive history of the whole known world. Most Roman historians opted for the first two; the histories of founding-to-present done by different hands at different times highlights the difficulty of working with history, when events are so far removed from the author's time. The conflicting and contradictory tales of Rome's early days only add to the frustration of knowing the history before the Republic and Empire.

Rome did at one point have a king - the authors list the seven kings according to Varro's list, including their dates (Romulus, from 753 BC to Tarquin, who died in 510 BC). These dates and identities are far from uncontroversial, as are the figures who follow. Some consuls, tribunes and other leaders are well-known names because of the significant events and accomplishments with which their names are attached, but the political instability of a growing city-state with (for most of this early history) strict safeguards against tyranny that include one-year, usually non-renewable terms of office make for a confusing narrative. There were more likely more consuls in Rome during any particular century from the end of the kingly era to the time of Julius Caesar than there have been Monarchs of Britain and Presidents of the United States combined. Add to this confusion that they often came from the same inter-related families and thus bore the same names, and one gets a huge task of unraveling the historical record.

Boatwright, Gargola and Talbert are to be given great credit for seeing through the task of making the text not only understandable, but enjoyable. In their thirteen chapters, they trace an historical pattern in chronological order, devoting each chapter to a period roughly 50 - 100 years in length. The first chapter looks at the state of early Italy generally, with its indigenous populations (Etruscans, Latins, Campanians, etc.) as well as the colonisers (Greeks, Phoenicians, etc.). The second chapter deals with the beginnings of urbanisation and the formation of city-states, including the early shift from kingdom to republican form of government for Rome. Rome's expansion beyond its own territory, beyond the Latin province and beyond Italy is described not as an inevitable march, but rather one of fits and starts, with set-backs and improbable happenings. How Rome's influence as an imperial power rather than simply as a conqueror in various parts of the Mediterranean world is also described in good detail. Wherever possible, the authors have brought in information about the various classes and orders of people, both in Rome, in Roman communities outside of Rome, and in provinces and subject states, to show the importance and the concerns for the plebs, the 'ordinary' citizens (and often non-citizens) of the city and empire.

One will learn about the key issues here (the Punic Wars, Augustus' consolidation, Diocletian's Tetrarchy, etc.), key individuals (Sulla, Pompey, Augustus, Hadrian, etc.), and general trends (the rise and decline of the Senate, the uneasy balance of religion and secular concerns from the start, etc.) - one will also learn new things here, often overlooked in histories that concentrate just on the powerful and 'most noteworthy' people.

The book is well indexed, useful and thorough. The appendix material also includes a brief glossary/biography listing of principle ancient authors, a general glossary of terminology, and a twenty-page timeline following four primary strands: West, East, Rome & Italy, and Cultural & Other Landmarks. While the timeline begins with the emergence of agriculture in 4000 BC (the authors use the BC - AD designation rather than the more general BCE - CE form), it really begins in earnest about 1000 - 750 BC, with the foundation of cities, including Rome, Carthage, and other city-states. The authors also use pull-quote boxes to draw original source material quotations to support the general historical narrative being presented, which is very effective in its presentation.

For serious Academics only, 28 Oct 2007
As a general non academic history reader, this is real heavy going
Dull and hard work
For graduate students only
Go elswhere if just want an interesting read about Roman Britain

What did the Romans ever do for us then?, 29 Jul 2001
When I was first recommended this book by my lecturer, as opposed to some of the more established works on Roman Britain, I have to say I was a little sceptical about this short volume. However, on reading, I was fantastically surprised. Millett does not simply repeat what earlier writers have said, but introduces new strands of thought, most especially on the so-called "Romanization" of Britain. Yet this is not a book which is simply spouting wacky, new ideas. The author ensures that the reader is given a basic knowledge of Roman Britain, in its many forms: political, cultural, artistic. Although I don't agree with Millett entirely (and this should not be seen as a criticism; indeed, his theories led myself to think and research much more deeply into the subject), this book was invaluable when I came to revision for both the clarity of the issues and its length (144 pages instead of the thousands in some other books is a godsend for a student, I can assure you!). Indeed, I would recommend it to anyone wanting easy and quick access to the material and debates arising from Roman Britain.

Recounting the making of a city, 03 Mar 2006
A fascinating reading, "Rome: Profile of a City, 312-1308" reconstructs the way in which events and passions reshaped the city of Rome after the end of the Roman Empire, from the insertion of Byzantine buildings and churches in the urban tissue to the progressive release of land from monasteries to build the medieval Rome, from the refusal of St. John in Lateran as symbol of Christianity to the increasing favour of pilgrims and local people for the holy sites of St. Peter's and St. Paul's. Roman ruins became the main walls of early Middle Ages buildings. Ancient temples turned into marketplaces. Towers flourished everywhere - for aggression and defence - even one (now destroyed) to spy into the Palace of Popes at St. John in Lateran. Monasteries enlarged immoderately in territory and power, then scaled down giving up land for building the core of the historical centre of present-day Rome - from Circo Massimo to Piazza del Popolo. Krautheimer's narration helps readers regain the historical reason behind streets, churches and buildings of pre-Renaissance Rome.

There is nothing to be gained by lying, 27 Apr 2007
Cornelius Tacitus knows perfectly what the cardinal human characteristic is: `From time immemorial, man has had an instinctive love of power.' And, `the reward for virtue was inevitable death.'
His book is a mighty illustration of the ruthless fight for the top spot: emperor. The ambitious and the wealthy fight one another without mercy. `The truth is that revolution and strife put tremendous power into the hands of evil men.' The vanquished are brutally slain.
For Tacitus, the most important factors in the power struggle are money (`money was the sinews of civil war') and control of the military (`the lesson that an army can create an emperor'). If you could `reward` your soldiers, you could win. However, the legions were not interested in war itself only in looting, plundering, raping and enslaving. `The men wanted campaign and set battles, as the prizes here were more attractive than their normal pay.' The victims were innocent peasants, women and children.
Overall, `Italy found it hard to put up with such hordes of infantry and cavalry, and with violence, financial loss and acts of lawlessness.'

While the `Annals' contain more human touch, the `Histories' are nearly completely centered on military, diplomatic and tactical manoeuvres, followed by terrifying and merciless violence after the battles (`the fury of the soldiers').

This for mankind severe and pessimistic book is a must read for all those interested in the lessons of history and for lovers of great classical literature.


Extensive coverage of the Year of Four Emperors, 16 Jul 2001
Tacitus (ca 56-120) was not only a great contemporary historian but the statesman who earned both consulship (AD 97) and governorship (AD 112). So he was uniquely positioned to give us the overview of the intricate behind the scene politics of Roman Empire.

"The Histories" covers the years AD 69-70. Other parts (up to AD 96) have been lost in the turmoil of history. Nevertheless the book gives us superb coverage of the Year of Four Emperors. All those emperors were "made" by army. Since then the involvement of army in the politics became sorrow pattern in the Roman empire that destabilized the political situation and allowed few emperors to die natural death.

The book is not very easily readable as the style of the translator seems to be a bit "heavy". I read "Annals" translated by Michael Grant and found that Tacitus can be better translated.

A solid introduction, 10 Jan 2005
'The Romans: From Village to Empire' is a new book by the Oxford University Press meant to be a companion to their earlier volume on the Greek civilisation. This text, written by scholars Mary T. Boatwright, Daniel J. Gargola, and Richard J.A. Talbert, in intended for several audiences - those with a general interest in history, beginning undergraduate students in historical survey courses, those with interest in archaeology, culture, and military events, and those who want a better understanding of the secular and sacred empire that preceded but gave rise to the current world of Christendom and European nation-states. The book is not one that is heavy on details, but is very well documented and annotated, with pictures, maps and drawings complementing most pages. Maps are generously provided throughout, including maps on the front and back binding pages.

The authors do not limit themselves to a particular historical method - sometimes the events will be see primarily through the biographical sketches of particular people (there are some historical periods for which the only surviving text evidence is later biographical writing about key figures), sometimes the events will be recreated through interpretation of archaeological finds, and sometimes on analogy and speculation based on other contemporary settlements and writers, although not Roman. The authors make clear at many points in the text that our textual evidence is most certainly a biased report - historians in the ancient world did not strive to write objective history as it is considered today, but rather often wrote with a specific intention, often the glorification of Rome or some family or person in Rome. The authors cite the Greek influence on Roman historical production - there were three primary ways to write a history: one, concentrate on a particular significant event or person; two, write a complete history of the city from its foundation to the present; and three, write a comprehensive history of the whole known world. Most Roman historians opted for the first two; the histories of founding-to-present done by different hands at different times highlights the difficulty of working with history, when events are so far removed from the author's time. The conflicting and contradictory tales of Rome's early days only add to the frustration of knowing the history before the Republic and Empire.

Rome did at one point have a king - the authors list the seven kings according to Varro's list, including their dates (Romulus, from 753 BC to Tarquin, who died in 510 BC). These dates and identities are far from uncontroversial, as are the figures who follow. Some consuls, tribunes and other leaders are well-known names because of the significant events and accomplishments with which their names are attached, but the political instability of a growing city-state with (for most of this early history) strict safeguards against tyranny that include one-year, usually non-renewable terms of office make for a confusing narrative. There were more likely more consuls in Rome during any particular century from the end of the kingly era to the time of Julius Caesar than there have been Monarchs of Britain and Presidents of the United States combined. Add to this confusion that they often came from the same inter-related families and thus bore the same names, and one gets a huge task of unraveling the historical record.

Boatwright, Gargola and Talbert are to be given great credit for seeing through the task of making the text not only understandable, but enjoyable. In their thirteen chapters, they trace an historical pattern in chronological order, devoting each chapter to a period roughly 50 - 100 years in length. The first chapter looks at the state of early Italy generally, with its indigenous populations (Etruscans, Latins, Campanians, etc.) as well as the colonisers (Greeks, Phoenicians, etc.). The second chapter deals with the beginnings of urbanisation and the formation of city-states, including the early shift from kingdom to republican form of government for Rome. Rome's expansion beyond its own territory, beyond the Latin province and beyond Italy is described not as an inevitable march, but rather one of fits and starts, with set-backs and improbable happenings. How Rome's influence as an imperial power rather than simply as a conqueror in various parts of the Mediterranean world is also described in good detail. Wherever possible, the authors have brought in information about the various classes and orders of people, both in Rome, in Roman communities outside of Rome, and in provinces and subject states, to show the importance and the concerns for the plebs, the 'ordinary' citizens (and often non-citizens) of the city and empire.

One will learn about the key issues here (the Punic Wars, Augustus' consolidation, Diocletian's Tetrarchy, etc.), key individuals (Sulla, Pompey, Augustus, Hadrian, etc.), and general trends (the rise and decline of the Senate, the uneasy balance of religion and secular concerns from the start, etc.) - one will also learn new things here, often overlooked in histories that concentrate just on the powerful and 'most noteworthy' people.

The book is well indexed, useful and thorough. The appendix material also includes a brief glossary/biography listing of principle ancient authors, a general glossary of terminology, and a twenty-page timeline following four primary strands: West, East, Rome & Italy, and Cultural & Other Landmarks. While the timeline begins with the emergence of agriculture in 4000 BC (the authors use the BC - AD designation rather than the more general BCE - CE form), it really begins in earnest about 1000 - 750 BC, with the foundation of cities, including Rome, Carthage, and other city-states. The authors also use pull-quote boxes to draw original source material quotations to support the general historical narrative being presented, which is very effective in its presentation.

For serious Academics only, 28 Oct 2007
As a general non academic history reader, this is real heavy going
Dull and hard work
For graduate students only
Go elswhere if just want an interesting read about Roman Britain

What did the Romans ever do for us then?, 29 Jul 2001
When I was first recommended this book by my lecturer, as opposed to some of the more established works on Roman Britain, I have to say I was a little sceptical about this short volume. However, on reading, I was fantastically surprised. Millett does not simply repeat what earlier writers have said, but introduces new strands of thought, most especially on the so-called "Romanization" of Britain. Yet this is not a book which is simply spouting wacky, new ideas. The author ensures that the reader is given a basic knowledge of Roman Britain, in its many forms: political, cultural, artistic. Although I don't agree with Millett entirely (and this should not be seen as a criticism; indeed, his theories led myself to think and research much more deeply into the subject), this book was invaluable when I came to revision for both the clarity of the issues and its length (144 pages instead of the thousands in some other books is a godsend for a student, I can assure you!). Indeed, I would recommend it to anyone wanting easy and quick access to the material and debates arising from Roman Britain.

Recounting the making of a city, 03 Mar 2006
A fascinating reading, "Rome: Profile of a City, 312-1308" reconstructs the way in which events and passions reshaped the city of Rome after the end of the Roman Empire, from the insertion of Byzantine buildings and churches in the urban tissue to the progressive release of land from monasteries to build the medieval Rome, from the refusal of St. John in Lateran as symbol of Christianity to the increasing favour of pilgrims and local people for the holy sites of St. Peter's and St. Paul's. Roman ruins became the main walls of early Middle Ages buildings. Ancient temples turned into marketplaces. Towers flourished everywhere - for aggression and defence - even one (now destroyed) to spy into the Palace of Popes at St. John in Lateran. Monasteries enlarged immoderately in territory and power, then scaled down giving up land for building the core of the historical centre of present-day Rome - from Circo Massimo to Piazza del Popolo. Krautheimer's narration helps readers regain the historical reason behind streets, churches and buildings of pre-Renaissance Rome.

There is nothing to be gained by lying, 27 Apr 2007
Cornelius Tacitus knows perfectly what the cardinal human characteristic is: `From time immemorial, man has had an instinctive love of power.' And, `the reward for virtue was inevitable death.'
His book is a mighty illustration of the ruthless fight for the top spot: emperor. The ambitious and the wealthy fight one another without mercy. `The truth is that revolution and strife put tremendous power into the hands of evil men.' The vanquished are brutally slain.
For Tacitus, the most important factors in the power struggle are money (`money was the sinews of civil war') and control of the military (`the lesson that an army can create an emperor'). If you could `reward` your soldiers, you could win. However, the legions were not interested in war itself only in looting, plundering, raping and enslaving. `The men wanted campaign and set battles, as the prizes here were more attractive than their normal pay.' The victims were innocent peasants, women and children.
Overall, `Italy found it hard to put up with such hordes of infantry and cavalry, and with violence, financial loss and acts of lawlessness.'

While the `Annals' contain more human touch, the `Histories' are nearly completely centered on military, diplomatic and tactical manoeuvres, followed by terrifying and merciless violence after the battles (`the fury of the soldiers').

This for mankind severe and pessimistic book is a must read for all those interested in the lessons of history and for lovers of great classical literature.


Extensive coverage of the Year of Four Emperors, 16 Jul 2001
Tacitus (ca 56-120) was not only a great contemporary historian but the statesman who earned both consulship (AD 97) and governorship (AD 112). So he was uniquely positioned to give us the overview of the intricate behind the scene politics of Roman Empire.

"The Histories" covers the years AD 69-70. Other parts (up to AD 96) have been lost in the turmoil of history. Nevertheless the book gives us superb coverage of the Year of Four Emperors. All those emperors were "made" by army. Since then the involvement of army in the politics became sorrow pattern in the Roman empire that destabilized the political situation and allowed few emperors to die natural death.

The book is not very easily readable as the style of the translator seems to be a bit "heavy". I read "Annals" translated by Michael Grant and found that Tacitus can be better translated.

THE expert on the subject, 28 Feb 2008
This is the scholarly summary of what is known from the archaeology of the period between the end of the Roman involvement in Britain and the period of the Anglo-Saxon era where we begin to have reliable records again.

This is not a rivetting read by any means, because it relies very little on guesswork, nor does it attempt to prove a peronal theory. Because it has no such agenda, almost all conclusions are qualified, explaining as much about what we DON'T know as what we do.

It is of interest to those serious students of the period, and should also be in the library of those people as a background to any "Arthurian" research.

A solid introduction, 10 Jan 2005
'The Romans: From Village to Empire' is a new book by the Oxford University Press meant to be a companion to their earlier volume on the Greek civilisation. This text, written by scholars Mary T. Boatwright, Daniel J. Gargola, and Richard J.A. Talbert, in intended for several audiences - those with a general interest in history, beginning undergraduate students in historical survey courses, those with interest in archaeology, culture, and military events, and those who want a better understanding of the secular and sacred empire that preceded but gave rise to the current world of Christendom and European nation-states. The book is not one that is heavy on details, but is very well documented and annotated, with pictures, maps and drawings complementing most pages. Maps are generously provided throughout, including maps on the front and back binding pages.

The authors do not limit themselves to a particular historical method - sometimes the events will be see primarily through the biographical sketches of particular people (there are some historical periods for which the only surviving text evidence is later biographical writing about key figures), sometimes the events will be recreated through interpretation of archaeological finds, and sometimes on analogy and speculation based on other contemporary settlements and writers, although not Roman. The authors make clear at many points in the text that our textual evidence is most certainly a biased report - historians in the ancient world did not strive to write objective history as it is considered today, but rather often wrote with a specific intention, often the glorification of Rome or some family or person in Rome. The authors cite the Greek influence on Roman historical production - there were three primary ways to write a history: one, concentrate on a particular significant event or person; two, write a complete history of the city from its foundation to the present; and three, write a comprehensive history of the whole known world. Most Roman historians opted for the first two; the histories of founding-to-present done by different hands at different times highlights the difficulty of working with history, when events are so far removed from the author's time. The conflicting and contradictory tales of Rome's early days only add to the frustration of knowing the history before the Republic and Empire.

Rome did at one point have a king - the authors list the seven kings according to Varro's list, including their dates (Romulus, from 753 BC to Tarquin, who died in 510 BC). These dates and identities are far from uncontroversial, as are the figures who follow. Some consuls, tribunes and other leaders are well-known names because of the significant events and accomplishments with which their names are attached, but the political instability of a growing city-state with (for most of this early history) strict safeguards against tyranny that include one-year, usually non-renewable terms of office make for a confusing narrative. There were more likely more consuls in Rome during any particular century from the end of the kingly era to the time of Julius Caesar than there have been Monarchs of Britain and Presidents of the United States combined. Add to this confusion that they often came from the same inter-related families and thus bore the same names, and one gets a huge task of unraveling the historical record.

Boatwright, Gargola and Talbert are to be given great credit for seeing through the task of making the text not only understandable, but enjoyable. In their thirteen chapters, they trace an historical pattern in chronological order, devoting each chapter to a period roughly 50 - 100 years in length. The first chapter looks at the state of early Italy generally, with its indigenous populations (Etruscans, Latins, Campanians, etc.) as well as the colonisers (Greeks, Phoenicians, etc.). The second chapter deals with the beginnings of urbanisation and the formation of city-states, including the early shift from kingdom to republican form of government for Rome. Rome's expansion beyond its own territory, beyond the Latin province and beyond Italy is described not as an inevitable march, but rather one of fits and starts, with set-backs and improbable happenings. How Rome's influence as an imperial power rather than simply as a conqueror in various parts of the Mediterranean world is also described in good detail. Wherever possible, the authors have brought in information about the various classes and orders of people, both in Rome, in Roman communities outside of Rome, and in provinces and subject states, to show the importance and the concerns for the plebs, the 'ordinary' citizens (and often non-citizens) of the city and empire.

One will learn about the key issues here (the Punic Wars, Augustus' consolidation, Diocletian's Tetrarchy, etc.), key individuals (Sulla, Pompey, Augustus, Hadrian, etc.), and general trends (the rise and decline of the Senate, the uneasy balance of religion and secular concerns from the start, etc.) - one will also learn new things here, often overlooked in histories that concentrate just on the powerful and 'most noteworthy' people.

The book is well indexed, useful and thorough. The appendix material also includes a brief glossary/biography listing of principle ancient authors, a general glossary of terminology, and a twenty-page timeline following four primary strands: West, East, Rome & Italy, and Cultural & Other Landmarks. While the timeline begins with the emergence of agriculture in 4000 BC (the authors use the BC - AD designation rather than the more general BCE - CE form), it really begins in earnest about 1000 - 750 BC, with the foundation of cities, including Rome, Carthage, and other city-states. The authors also use pull-quote boxes to draw original source material quotations to support the general historical narrative being presented, which is very effective in its presentation.

For serious Academics only, 28 Oct 2007
As a general non academic history reader, this is real heavy going
Dull and hard work
For graduate students only
Go elswhere if just want an interesting read about Roman Britain

What did the Romans ever do for us then?, 29 Jul 2001
When I was first recommended this book by my lecturer, as opposed to some of the more established works on Roman Britain, I have to say I was a little sceptical about this short volume. However, on reading, I was fantastically surprised. Millett does not simply repeat what earlier writers have said, but introduces new strands of thought, most especially on the so-called "Romanization" of Britain. Yet this is not a book which is simply spouting wacky, new ideas. The author ensures that the reader is given a basic knowledge of Roman Britain, in its many forms: political, cultural, artistic. Although I don't agree with Millett entirely (and this should not be seen as a criticism; indeed, his theories led myself to think and research much more deeply into the subject), this book was invaluable when I came to revision for both the clarity of the issues and its length (144 pages instead of the thousands in some other books is a godsend for a student, I can assure you!). Indeed, I would recommend it to anyone wanting easy and quick access to the material and debates arising from Roman Britain.

Recounting the making of a city, 03 Mar 2006
A fascinating reading, "Rome: Profile of a City, 312-1308" reconstructs the way in which events and passions reshaped the city of Rome after the end of the Roman Empire, from the insertion of Byzantine buildings and churches in the urban tissue to the progressive release of land from monasteries to build the medieval Rome, from the refusal of St. John in Lateran as symbol of Christianity to the increasing favour of pilgrims and local people for the holy sites of St. Peter's and St. Paul's. Roman ruins became the main walls of early Middle Ages buildings. Ancient temples turned into marketplaces. Towers flourished everywhere - for aggression and defence - even one (now destroyed) to spy into the Palace of Popes at St. John in Lateran. Monasteries enlarged immoderately in territory and power, then scaled down giving up land for building the core of the historical centre of present-day Rome - from Circo Massimo to Piazza del Popolo. Krautheimer's narration helps readers regain the historical reason behind streets, churches and buildings of pre-Renaissance Rome.

There is nothing to be gained by lying, 27 Apr 2007
Cornelius Tacitus knows perfectly what the cardinal human characteristic is: `From time immemorial, man has had an instinctive love of power.' And, `the reward for virtue was inevitable death.'
His book is a mighty illustration of the ruthless fight for the top spot: emperor. The ambitious and the wealthy fight one another without mercy. `The truth is that revolution and strife put tremendous power into the hands of evil men.' The vanquished are brutally slain.
For Tacitus, the most important factors in the power struggle are money (`money was the sinews of civil war') and control of the military (`the lesson that an army can create an emperor'). If you could `reward` your soldiers, you could win. However, the legions were not interested in war itself only in looting, plundering, raping and enslaving. `The men wanted campaign and set battles, as the prizes here were more attractive than their normal pay.' The victims were innocent peasants, women and children.
Overall, `Italy found it hard to put up with such hordes of infantry and cavalry, and with violence, financial loss and acts of lawlessness.'

While the `Annals' contain more human touch, the `Histories' are nearly completely centered on military, diplomatic and tactical manoeuvres, followed by terrifying and merciless violence after the battles (`the fury of the soldiers').

This for mankind severe and pessimistic book is a must read for all those interested in the lessons of history and for lovers of great classical literature.


Extensive coverage of the Year of Four Emperors, 16 Jul 2001
Tacitus (ca 56-120) was not only a great contemporary historian but the statesman who earned both consulship (AD 97) and governorship (AD 112). So he was uniquely positioned to give us the overview of the intricate behind the scene politics of Roman Empire.

"The Histories" covers the years AD 69-70. Other parts (up to AD 96) have been lost in the turmoil of history. Nevertheless the book gives us superb coverage of the Year of Four Emperors. All those emperors were "made" by army. Since then the involvement of army in the politics became sorrow pattern in the Roman empire that destabilized the political situation and allowed few emperors to die natural death.

The book is not very easily readable as the style of the translator seems to be a bit "heavy". I read "Annals" translated by Michael Grant and found that Tacitus can be better translated.

THE expert on the subject, 28 Feb 2008
This is the scholarly summary of what is known from the archaeology of the period between the end of the Roman involvement in Britain and the period of the Anglo-Saxon era where we begin to have reliable records again.

This is not a rivetting read by any means, because it relies very little on guesswork, nor does it attempt to prove a peronal theory. Because it has no such agenda, almost all conclusions are qualified, explaining as much about what we DON'T know as what we do.

It is of interest to those serious students of the period, and should also be in the library of those people as a background to any "Arthurian" research.

Barbarians at the gates..., 21 Oct 2007
A strange book. Ostensibly about the hunt for the treasure, plundered from Rome by the Visigoths, and buried with their king, Alaric. Actually, it's a book about the decline of Rome and the rise of the Catholic church.
Interesting overall, but tedious in parts.

For all the Roman history and treasure hunt amateurs alike..., 09 Aug 2007
It is a uniquely gripping book, providing not only the (armchair) thrill of a treasure hunt, but also an unusual wealth of historic data about the decline and last period of the Roman empire. The author exhausted an inordinate amount of sources, covering not only history, but also (Roman) architecture, Italian geography, trade, customs, social structures, etc. His painstaking research in evaluating the size and composition of Alaric's Roman loot of gold/precious objects is remarkable, definitely as close to the truth as it gets. And the enormous size of this treasure, most probably buried with Alaric, and still not discovered, makes for a hugely exciting reading, equalling your best mistery novel.

A Treat for Treasure Hunters and Historians, 03 Aug 2007
I thoroughly enjoyed this exciting book which will enthral the armchair treasure hunter and historian alike. And, with everything still to play for, is also destined to become a great source book for the practising treasure hunter.
There is no inventory to be found of what spoils Alaric and the Visigoths carried off following their sacking and plundering of Rome in 410 AD nor indeed what they buried with Alaric on his sudden death a few months later. To address this issue Daniel Costa has painstakingly researched the funeral practices of the Visigoths to confirm that they buried their nobles with treasures as well as what manner of precious objects Rome contained at the time, in order to determine what the Visigoths stole. His amazing conclusion is that Alaric plundered many tonnes of priceless gold and silver objects of which at least five tonnes would have been buried with him in southern Italy to help him through the after life.
But, of course, this book is much more than a treasure story or an inventory of gold, silver and jewels, it is also a dynamic narrative of characters and crucial events in the history of Europe. If you enjoy history or treasure stories this is a must for your bookshelf.


The Barbarians and the gold of the Empire, 31 Jul 2007
This is an admirable book. The logical thread of the story is clearly followed; the analysis of the pertaining facts is animated by the insertion of the right amount of significant details. Every event described is suggestively presented in the context of its historical background. An easy and elegant style makes this book be highly informative, as well as accessible and entertaining. In brief, a real surprise! A valuable lesson of Dark Ages history, seen from the unusual angle of the treasure hunting.

This book might not be what you think it is, 30 May 2007
Daniel Costa's book is a well-researched and very readable history of Rome at the onset of the Dark Ages, when various Barbarian hordes pillaged the eternal city. But be warned, the sub-title "The Hunt for Alaric's Treasure", is a bit of a misnomer. All we learn from the first one hundred pages is that the fabulous treasure is probably buried with the Visigothic King under a riverbed near Cosenza. Only the last quarter of the book is actually devoted to the search for Alaric's Gold and, even then, the author has to concede that we are no closer to finding the treasure than we were 1500 years ago! A good book, but if you're expecting something like Sean Kingsley's "God's Gold: The Quest for the Lost Temple Treasure of Jerusalem", then you might be disappointed.