Dexter Hoyos has written a remarkably efficient and wonderfully lucid account of the Roman Empire from its beginnings in the third century BC to the height of its power in the third century AD. Combining narrative with thematic discussion throughout, Professor Hoyos shows readers how the empire functioned and enables them to see what set the Roman Empire apart from ... Read moreother empires. This is a book that anyone interested in how political and social power are created and exercised, in any age, will find welcome. Although able to draw upon a truly impressive command of modern scholarship, and equally impressive command of ancient evidence of all sorts and periods, Professor Hoyos never loses sight of the lived experience of the Roman world. His lucid analysis allows readers to grasp the complexity of the Roman world, while his clear prose and unpretentious style makes this a book that anyone interested in history can and will enjoy.
David Potter, Professor of Greek and Latin, University of Michigan, USA How did Rome acquire her mighty empire? What drove the Romans in the pursuit of war? And what was the experience of the provinces under Roman rule? Hoyos proves himself a steady and engaging guide as he charts Rome's meteoric rise, as well as the resistance she met along the way.
Kathryn Tempest, Senior Lecturer in Latin Literature and Roman History, Roehampton University, UK Show Less