Rome Victorious: The Irresistible Rise of the Roman Empire

Rome was the epicenter of a vast empire whose cultural legacy is incalculable, founded by desperate adventurers beside the banks of the River Tiber. It rose to greatness through imperial law, civilisation, and language, interacting with and influencing local cultures across western and central Europe and North Africa. Despite its successes, the empire was not won cheaply or fast, and did not always succeed. The Romans strove to impose moral and legal principles for directing their subjects and laid down standards of government that are still valid today.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 272 pages
\n Publication date: 27 December 2018
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
\n

Rome, the vibrant city of patricians and plebeians, emperors and gladiators, slaves and concubines, stood as the epicenter of a vast empire whose cultural legacy remains immeasurable. How a small settlement, founded by adventurous pioneers beside the banks of the River Tiber, managed to conquer vast territories across the known world is a tale of remarkable improbability. The grandeur of Rome is evident in its colossal structures, such as the Colosseum, adorned with majestic columns; the formidable legionaries marching in gleaming steel breastplates; and the whimsical Caesars, dressed in purple robes, who believed themselves to be divine. These images evoke a sense of awe and grandeur that continues to be associated with this most celebrated of ancient capitals.

The glory of Rome is further enhanced by enduring monuments like Hadrian's Wall, standing tall as it did against the fierce Pictish barbarians, believed to hail from the mythical Land Beyond the North Wind. This book vividly recounts the rags-to-riches story of Rome's unlikely triumph. Perhaps the most famous example in history of humble beginnings rising to greatness, Rome's empire was a dynamic and ever-evolving entity. Over centuries, under the reign of the "boundless grandeur of the Roman peace" (as described by Elder Pliny), imperial law, civilization, and language interacted and influenced local cultures across western and central Europe, as well as North Africa. Provincial subjects were granted Roman citizenship, and generals and senators were appointed. In AD 98, Trajan became the first Roman emperor to hail from outside Italy, marking a significant milestone in the empire's expansion. Poets, philosophers, historians, and legalists, among many others, contributed to the brilliant intellectual constellation secured by the pax Romana.

However, as Dexter Hoyos reveals, the empire's acquisition was not without its challenges. The empire's expansion required significant military and economic resources, leading to territorial disputes, political instability, and economic hardships. The empire's borders were constantly pushed, and conflicts with neighboring empires and tribes were a constant threat. Despite these challenges, Rome's legacy endured, and its influence on world history remains profound. The Roman legal system, for instance, has shaped the legal systems of many modern nations, while the Roman road network, known as the Via Appia, remains a testament to the empire's engineering prowess. The Roman art and architecture, particularly the ruins of the Colosseum and the Pantheon, continue to inspire and captivate visitors from around the world.

In conclusion, Rome's story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of human civilization. From a small settlement on the banks of the Tiber to a mighty empire that spanned the globe, Rome's journey is a reminder of the power of determination, innovation, and cultural exchange. The grandeur of Rome, embodied in its magnificent structures, enduring monuments, and intellectual legacy, continues to captivate and inspire us to this day.

\n Weight: 470g\n
Dimension: 217 x 144 x 21 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781780762746\n \n