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The Twelve Caesars

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( 21,276 ratings, 946 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 Twelve Caesars, translated by Robert Graves, presents the lives of the first twelve rulers of the Roman Empire through the detailed and often scandalous biographies written by Suetonius. The book offers a fascinating glimpse into their public and private lives, exploring their political achievements, personal vices, and notable events during their reigns.
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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 like this book if you're fascinated by ancient Roman history and enjoy exploring the lives of its most famous and infamous rulers, complete with dramatic tales, intriguing character studies, and vivid historical detail.

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The Twelve Caesars

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.

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 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 book’s 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 edition’s fresh editorial content enhances a reader’s 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.

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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

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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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