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SPQR
A History of Ancient Rome
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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?
Mary Beard on Ancient Rome: Britain's favourite classicist lifts the lid on the Roman Empire.
Mary Beard on Ancient Rome: Britain's favourite classicist lifts the lid on the Roman Empire. A major new BBC TV series presented by the author starts in May 2016.
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Description
Ancient Rome continues to captivate modern readers, and its history is crucial for understanding the foundations of Western civilisation. In SPQR by Professor Mary Beard, one of the world's foremost classicists delves deep into the history of Rome, offering a comprehensive and captivating exploration of this extraordinary empire.
This authoritative work traces the evolution of Rome from its humble beginnings as a small village in central Italy to its emergence as a dominant empire stretching from Spain to Syria. Through meticulous research and engaging narrative, Beard examines how the Romans themselves perceived their accomplishments and legacy, providing insight into their worldviews and values that still resonate today.
SPQR covers a span of 1,000 years, presenting a fresh perspective on Roman culture. This book illuminates essential aspects of ancient life, including the complex institution of slavery, the development and impact of running water infrastructure, and discussions surrounding democracy, migration, religious disputes, social mobility, and exploitation. These topics are placed within the broader context of the Roman Empire, shedding light on the intricate social and political frameworks that drove its expansion and sustained its power.
Moreover, Beard skillfully connects the past with the present, illustrating how many of the debates and issues faced by the Romansโsuch as citizenship, security, and civil rightsโcontinue to influence contemporary discourse on liberty and governance. The myths and legendary figures from Rome's storied past, from Romulus and Remus to the tragic tale of Lucretia, still evoke a profound response and offer timeless lessons.
The title SPQR stands for "Senatus Populusque Romanus," or "the Senate and People of Rome," a term that embodies the collective identity and governance of the Roman state. Beard's work brings to life the essence of this motto, exploring how it shaped the empire's operations and cultural imprint.
By combining rigorous historical analysis with vivid storytelling, SPQR is more than just a history book; it is a reflection on the enduring legacy of Rome and its relevance in our modern age. This definitive history is essential reading for anyone intrigued by ancient Rome and its lasting impact on the world.
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?
SPQR by Professor Mary Beard is celebrated for its fast-paced and engaging narrative, combining scholarly depth with a lively presentation. Reviews praise Beard's ability to sustain energy over the book's extensive length, providing both broad historical overviews and intimate, humorous details. It's recognised as a masterful piece of popular history that challenges conventional views and brings ancient Rome vividly to life.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781846683817
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 01 April 2016
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Profile Books Ltd
Edition: Main
Illustration: 16 page pcolour plate section and embedded black and white pictures
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 38.0mm
Width: 128.0mm
Height: 190.0mm
Weight: 510g
Pages: 608
About the Author
Mary Beard is a professor of classics at Newnham College, Cambridge, and the classics editor of the TLS. She has world-wide academic acclaim. Her previous books include the bestselling, Wolfson Prize-winning Pompeii, The Roman Triumph, The Parthenon and Confronting the Classics. Her blog has been collected in the books It's a Don's Life and All in a Don's Day. She is in the 2014 top 10 Prospect list of the most influential thinkers in the world.
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