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The Twelve Caesars
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The Twelve Caesars
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Chronicles the public careers and private lives of the men who wielded absolute power over Rome, from the foundation of the empire under Julius Caesar and Augustus, to the decline into depravity and civil war under Nero and the recovery that came with his successors.
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Description
The Twelve Caesars, written by Suetonius and masterfully translated by Robert Graves, offers an unparalleled glimpse into the lives of the Roman emperors from Julius Caesar to Domitian. This revised edition (9780140449211) retains the classic translation that has long been celebrated for its vividness and precision, but comes with entirely new editorial material, providing fresh insights into these historical figures.
Serving as the private secretary to Emperor Hadrian, Suetonius had unfettered access to the imperial archives, alongside firsthand accounts, which he meticulously used to craft one of the most captivating biographical works ever created. Through its pages, The Twelve Caesars chronicles the public careers and the intimate, often scandalous, private lives of the individuals who steered the Roman Empire through periods of grandeur and turmoil.
This edition spans the ascendance of Julius Caesar, under whose leadership the Roman Republic began its transformation into an empire, and Augustus, whose reign brought peace and stability. It then delves into the eras marked by excess and moral decay under emperors like Nero, only to move onto the periods of restoration with his successors.
The Twelve Caesars stands out not just for its historical narrative but also for its masterful use of anecdote and vivid physical description. Suetonius brings to life the idiosyncrasies, virtues, and vices of these rulers, painting a compelling portrait of their human sides. The bookβs engaging style and attention to detail make it a timeless work that transcends its historical context, offering relevance and richness to modern readers.
This revised editionβs fresh editorial content enhances a readerβs understanding, offering context and interpretation that align with contemporary scholarship. Whether you are a student of history, an enthusiast of classical literature, or simply a lover of gripping biographies, The Twelve Caesars is an essential addition to your reading list, providing a richly textured portrayal of Rome's earliest emperors.
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 Twelve Caesars combines Suetonius' original account with a translation by Robert Graves. Reviewers praise its detailed and colourful portrayal of Roman emperors, appreciating Graves' accessible and engaging translation. Historians and enthusiasts of ancient Rome find it an invaluable and fascinating read.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780140455168
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 25 October 2007
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Penguin Classics
Contributors:
- Edited by James Rives
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 19.0mm
Width: 128.0mm
Height: 196.0mm
Weight: 318g
Pages: 464
About the Author
Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus was probably born in AD69 - the famous 'year of the four Emperors'. From the letters of Suetonius' close friend Pliny the Younger we learn that he practiced briefly at the bar, avoided political life, and became chief secretary to the Emperor Hadrian (AD117-38). Suetonius seems to have lived to a good age and probably died around the year AD140. James Rives teaches in the area of Classical Studies at Stanford University. Professor Rives is currently serving as Review Editor for Phoenix, Journal of the Classical Association of Canada.
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