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Memoirs of Hadrian

And Reflections on the Composition of Memoirs of Hadrian
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( 32,829 ratings, 3,029 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
Memoirs of Hadrian by Marguerite Yourcenar is a fictional autobiography, taking the form of a letter from Emperor Hadrian to his successor, Marcus Aurelius. Through this intimate correspondence, Hadrian reflects on his life, his philosophical musings, political decisions, and personal relationships. The narrative provides an intricate portrayal of ancient Roman society and Hadrian's introspective journey towards wisdom and self-understanding.
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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 historical fiction that delves deeply into the mind of a Roman Emperor. The novel provides a rich and introspective portrayal of power, philosophy, and the complexities of human nature, offering a reflective meditation on life, legacy, and the burdens of leadership.

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Memoirs of Hadrian

The Emperor Hadrian writes a valedictory letter to Marcus Aurelius, his future successor. The Emperor meditates on his past, describing his accession, military triumphs, love of poetry and music, and the philosophy that informed his powerful and far-flung rule. This work recreates the life and death of one of the great rulers of the ancient world.

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

In her magnificent novel, Marguerite Yourcenar recreates the life and death of one of the great rulers of the ancient world. The Emperor Hadrian, aware his demise is imminent, writes a long valedictory letter to Marcus Aurelius, his future successor.

The Emperor meditates on his past, describing his accession, military triumphs, love of poetry and music, and the philosophy that informed his powerful and far-flung rule.

A work of superbly detailed research and sustained empathy, Memoirs of Hadrian captures the living spirit of the Emperor and of Ancient Rome.

Series: Penguin Modern Classics

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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?

Memoirs of Hadrian by Marguerite Yourcenar is often praised for its lyrical prose and deep historical insight. Reviewers appreciate the novel's immersive portrayal of Emperor Hadrian's introspective and philosophical journey through his life and reign. The book's reflective and intimate style is commended for blending historical detail with profound human themes.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141184968

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 07 December 2000

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Translated by Grace Frick
  • Introduction by Paul Bailey

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 16.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 215g

Pages: 288

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About the Author

Marguerite Yourcenar (8 June 1903 – 17 December 1987) was a Belgian-born French novelist and essayist. Winner of the Prix Femina and the Erasmus Prize, she was the first woman elected to the Académie française, in 1980, and the seventeenth person to occupy Seat 3.

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