Ancient Rome: The Entire Roman Empire in Your Pocket

by David Pickering

From aqueducts to baths, from gladiators to emperors, the fascinating history and mythology of ancient Rome are brought to life in this entertaining and highly-readable guide. With their sophisticated army, monuments, and roads, the Romans literally paved the way to modern Europe. Learn about the hand-to-hand combat at gladiatorial shows, rediscover the myths and legends of the Roman gods, and find out how and why Rome became the conquering superpower that it did. History will come to life in this engaging and comprehensive introduction to one of the most fascinating and influential places the world has ever known. A map of the Roman Empire and a timeline with the accomplishments of the emperors illustrate the chapters on geography and history. Roman culture, the gods and religious festivals, and mythology including Virgil's Aeneid, Romulus, and Remus are all discussed. Daily life in ancient Greece is covered for all different levels in society, including the jobs, family life, and leisure activities. The transition from republic to dictatorship is an important part of the discussion of politics, and the section on learning and knowledge covers law, science, architecture, literature, and art. Important wars, the Empire, and the army and navy are all explored. Finally, a look at contemporary Rome includes temples, archaeology, and modern tourist sites.

Genres: History

255 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2008

Reviews

[Kekepania Kakiki · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.

[Elise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great little comprehensive book. My favorite part was reading about all the different emperors. Half of them were crazy and cruel, while the other half were more or less ok. I only wish they had gone into the actual fall of the Roman empire, but I guess that's for another book.

[Marie Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great little book, handy to keep in your pocket for those times when you have a few moments to read, ie waiting rooms. Gives you a nice taster of Ancient Rome without being too heavy. Would have been nice to include a little something about the fall of Rome, hence the four stars.