Emperor Septimius Severus: The Roman Hannibal

The rise of Septimius Severus to power started the dominance of the military in Roman affairs, and his advice for his sons was to be harmonious, enrich the soldiers, and scorn all other men. This biography offers the first complete overview of Severus' policies, events, and military campaigns, which contributed to the military crisis of the third century and left a legacy for his son, Caracalla.

Format: Hardback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 24 April 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

One ancient source hailed Severus as the most warlike of all men who had lived up to that moment in time. The ascent of Septimius Severus to power marked the dominance of the military in Roman affairs, and it was due to this that Septimius Severus' advice for his sons was nothing short of: Be harmonious, enrich the soldiers, and scorn all other men!

Ilkka Syvanne delves into the intricate details of how Septimius Severus achieved his position, won his wars and battles, and utilized his newly gained power to secure his family's position. He reveals how he reformed the state and its military, employing these remodeled forces in wars of conquest to prove his worth as emperor to both the soldiers and the populace. This biography provides the first comprehensive overview of Severus' reign, offering the fullest detail permitted by the sources. It also explains how and why these policies contributed to the military crisis of the third century and discusses the legacy he left for his son, Caracalla, who followed him in both his good and bad traits.

Weight: 942g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399066655