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The Fall Of The West

The Death Of The Roman Superpower
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( 3,138 ratings, 264 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Fall of the West by Adrian Goldsworthy provides an in-depth exploration of the decline of the Roman Empire, examining the complex factors that contributed to its fall. The book offers a detailed analysis of the societal, military, and economic pressures that weakened the empire over time, shedding light on both internal challenges and external threats. Goldsworthy's narrative focuses on the gradual process of decline rather than a singular catastrophic event, painting a comprehensive picture of this pivotal period in history.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by the intricate details of historical empires and wish to explore how internal and external pressures led to the decline of one of history's most influential civilisations. Adrian Goldsworthy delves into the nuanced interplay of military strategy, political machinations, and societal changes, offering a gripping narrative for any history enthusiast intrigued by the ancient world.

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A sweeping narrative of the decline and fall of the Roman Empire.

A sweeping narrative of the decline and fall of the Roman Empire.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Fall of the Roman Empire has been a bestselling subject since the 18th century. Until very recently, the academic view embarrassedly downplayed the violence and destruction in an attempt to provide a more urbane account of late antiquity. Barbarian invasions were mistakenly described as the movement of peoples. It was all painfully tame and civilised.

But now Adrian Goldsworthy comes forward with his trademark combination of clear narrative, common sense, and a thorough mastery of the sources. In telling the story from start to finish, he rescues the era from the diffident and mealy-mouthed. This is a red-blooded account of aggressive barbarian attacks, palace coups, scheming courtiers, and corrupt emperors who set the bar for excess.

It is 'old fashioned history' in the best sense: an accessible narrative with colourful characters whose story reveals the true reasons for the fall of Rome.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Fall of the West by Adrian Goldsworthy is praised for its compelling narrative which vividly illustrates the collapse of the Roman Empire, intertwining personal stories of horror and tragedy with the grand historical perspective. Reviewers appreciate the author's ability to balance individual tales with the broader story of this pivotal historical event.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780753826928

Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 February 2010

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Weidenfeld & Nicolson

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 38.0mm

Width: 136.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 500g

Pages: 544

About the Author

Adrian Goldsworthy has a doctorate from Oxford University. His books include THE PUNIC WARS and the volume on Roman Warfare in John Keegan's Cassell History of Warfare series. He has lectured on Roman history in both the UK and USA.

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