First Man in Rome by Colleen McCullough, A Book Review by Rebecca Moll
The First Man in Rome
Ever played “King of the Hill?”
Well, if you had the skinned knees to prove it, then you understand the question. What is probably now considered an unfair, barbaric childhood game, it pretty much sums up what it took to be the First Man in Rome. Spoils to the victor. Woe to the losers.
Far from a history buff, a novice student of the ancient world and all things Roman, I wholeheartedly recommend Colleen McCullough’s First Man in Rome as a perfect starting point for venturing into this fascinating, ancient world. With maps to illustrate, an extensive glossary, and great artistry in character, McCullough makes this one smooth journey.
Upon finishing The First Man in Rome, my second book of McCullough’s masterpiece Roman series, my first being the last of the series, Caesar’s Women, I am now completely hooked. The Grass Crown awaits.
I find the parallels to today all too painfully clear. 2,000+ years hasn’t really changed us, human nature being just that, nature. Wrath, greed, lust, envy. Murder, mayhem, and war. And, war. And, war. Sometimes, even love. The dog and pony show of today’s politics is nothing new. Men still fight men, claw their way to the top, secure footing upon the backs of the fallen, all to be crowned the victor.
King of the Hill. The First Man in Rome. A fleeting attainment. A precarious position. For it is upon reaching the top that all sides are exposed.
Yet, like splintered fractions of refracted light there is more, so much more. Dignitas, honor, a man’s moral compass, a venerable elevator that holds man high, estimable. Esteem. The high road. The only road to greatness, to attain and retain the most coveted glory of all.
It is said, all roads lead to Rome. I, for one, am enjoying the journey. What about you? Up for a little “King of the Hill?” Come on, why the hesitation? Spoils to the victor and all that.
Dust off your sandals, slip into your tunic, strap on your helmet and breastplate, grab a spear and shield, and get into formation. No, the purple bordered toga will have to wait. So will the wine, the women, the lofty Palatine residence full of slaves, the triumphal march through the gates of Rome. With McCullough penning the way, you will never forget those noble Romans.
The legions are leaving. Let’s go!
Ever played “King of the Hill?” Well, if you had the skinned knees to prove it, then you understand the question. What is probably now considered an unfair, barbaric childhood game, it pretty much sums up what it took to be the First Man in Rome. Spoils to the victor. Woe to the losers.
Far from a history buff, a novice student of the ancient world and all things Roman, I wholeheartedly recommend Colleen McCullough’s First Man in Rome as a perfect starting point for venturing into this fascinating, ancient world. With maps to illustrate, an extensive glossary, and great artistry in character, McCullough makes this one smooth journey.
Upon finishing The First Man in Rome, my second book of McCullough’s masterpiece Roman series, my first being the last of the series, Caesar’s Women, I am now completely hooked. The Grass Crown awaits.
I find the parallels to today all too painfully clear. 2,000+ years hasn’t really changed us, human nature being just that, nature. Wrath, greed, lust, envy. Murder, mayhem, and war. And, war. And, war. Sometimes, even love. The dog and pony show of today’s politics is nothing new. Men still fight men, claw their way to the top, secure footing upon the backs of the fallen, all to be crowned the victor.
King of the Hill. The First Man in Rome. A fleeting attainment. A precarious position. For it is upon reaching the top that all sides are exposed.
Yet, like splintered fractions of refracted light there is more, so much more. Dignitas, honor, a man’s moral compass, a venerable elevator that holds man high, estimable. Esteem. The high road. The only road to greatness, to attain and retain the most coveted glory of all.
It is said, all roads lead to Rome. I, for one, am enjoying the journey. What about you? Up for a little “King of the Hill?” Come on, why the hesitation? Spoils to the victor and all that.
Dust off your sandals, slip into your tunic, strap on your helmet and breastplate, grab a spear and shield, and get into formation. No, the purple bordered toga will have to wait. So will the wine, the women, the lofty Palatine residence full of slaves, the triumphal march through the gates of Rome. With McCullough penning the way, you will never forget those noble Romans.
The legions are leaving. Let’s go!
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