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The War That Made the Roman Empire: Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian at Actium
A “splendid” ( The Wall Street Journal ) account of one of history’s most important and yet little-known wars, the campaign culminating in the Battle of Actium in 31 BC, whose outcome determined the future of the Roman Empire.
Following Caesar’s assassination and Mark Antony’s defeat of the conspirators who killed Caesar, two powerful men remained in Rome—Antony and Caesar’s chosen heir, young Octavian, the future Augustus. When Antony fell in love with the most powerful woman in the world, Egypt’s ruler Cleopatra, and thwarted Octavian’s ambition to rule the empire, another civil war broke out. In 31 BC one of the largest naval battles in the ancient world took place—more than 600 ships, almost 200,000 men, and one woman—the Battle of Actium. Octavian prevailed over Antony and Cleopatra, who subsequently killed themselves.
The Battle of Actium had great consequences for the empire. Had Antony and Cleopatra won, the empire’s capital might have moved from Rome to Alexandria, Cleopatra’s capital, and Latin might have become the empire’s second language after Greek, which was spoken throughout the eastern Mediterranean, including Egypt.
In this “superbly recounted” ( The National Review ) history, Barry Strauss, ancient history authority, describes this consequential battle with the drama and expertise that it deserves. The War That Made the Roman Empire is essential history that features three of the greatest figures of the ancient world.
Following Caesar’s assassination and Mark Antony’s defeat of the conspirators who killed Caesar, two powerful men remained in Rome—Antony and Caesar’s chosen heir, young Octavian, the future Augustus. When Antony fell in love with the most powerful woman in the world, Egypt’s ruler Cleopatra, and thwarted Octavian’s ambition to rule the empire, another civil war broke out. In 31 BC one of the largest naval battles in the ancient world took place—more than 600 ships, almost 200,000 men, and one woman—the Battle of Actium. Octavian prevailed over Antony and Cleopatra, who subsequently killed themselves.
The Battle of Actium had great consequences for the empire. Had Antony and Cleopatra won, the empire’s capital might have moved from Rome to Alexandria, Cleopatra’s capital, and Latin might have become the empire’s second language after Greek, which was spoken throughout the eastern Mediterranean, including Egypt.
In this “superbly recounted” ( The National Review ) history, Barry Strauss, ancient history authority, describes this consequential battle with the drama and expertise that it deserves. The War That Made the Roman Empire is essential history that features three of the greatest figures of the ancient world.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published March 22, 2022
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3824 people want to read
About the author
Barry S. Strauss
41 books360 followersBarry Strauss, professor of history and classics at Cornell University, is a leading expert on ancient military history. He has written or edited several books, including The Battle of Salamis, The Trojan War, The Spartacus War, Masters of Command, The Death of Caesar, and Ten Caesars.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
October 3, 2023
“The Alexandrians were known as fast-talking, witty, and vicious. Their tempers could rise as rapidly and unpredictably as a thunderstorm from the sea, or a khamsin, the hot southerly wind that blows in from the desert. They loved music and gossip, and they could be whipped up into a mob. They were capable of starting a fire, lynching an ambassador or dragging an unpopular king from the palace and murdering him. This was the city of Cleopatra.”
Augustus, Antony and Cleopatra - I never get tired of Roman history. These people had such juicy lives. This book recounts the rise of Augustus after the death of Caesar, including an intriguing cast of characters, culminating in the naval battle of Actium in which Augustus defeated the powerful team of Antony and Cleopatra. I am not a huge fan of military history, but this book made it palatable for me. The description of Actium was particularly compelling.
The book is entertainingly and clearly written and I like the way that the author treated competing opinions about events. One of my takeaways from the book is a desire to read more about Cleopatra, since I have already read a lot about Augustus. At the end of the book the bibliography (not included in the audiobook) is divided into topics, so it was easy for me to find sources to add to my want to read list.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
Augustus, Antony and Cleopatra - I never get tired of Roman history. These people had such juicy lives. This book recounts the rise of Augustus after the death of Caesar, including an intriguing cast of characters, culminating in the naval battle of Actium in which Augustus defeated the powerful team of Antony and Cleopatra. I am not a huge fan of military history, but this book made it palatable for me. The description of Actium was particularly compelling.
The book is entertainingly and clearly written and I like the way that the author treated competing opinions about events. One of my takeaways from the book is a desire to read more about Cleopatra, since I have already read a lot about Augustus. At the end of the book the bibliography (not included in the audiobook) is divided into topics, so it was easy for me to find sources to add to my want to read list.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
September 21, 2022
The reader benefits from Barry Strauss’s scholarship. He gives the reader the tools to envision the goals, motives, strategies and tactics of the key players: Antony, Octavian and Cleopatra and to a lesser extent family members, client kings and generals. He shows how this battle ended 15 years of civil war in Rome and tells of its ramifications for the future.
The highlight was, of course, the battle. Even though you know the outcome, you are at the edge of your seat. At the end, the triple triumph for Octavian is great writing in a book of great writing.
I appreciated Strauss’s recounting of the players, their family histories and sides taken in the civil war. Similarly, but in a totally different vein, I also appreciated the description of the warships, their maneuverability, the numbers and positioning of rowers and warriors, structure and ramming capability.
While the book is short, it covers a lot of ground. Here are some takeaways
• Octavian was always in need of cash. There was an army to pay and his resources were always stretched. The wealth was in the East.
• This was Octavian’s war. He was motivated by the need to destroy Caesarian and obtain Cleopatra’s wealth. Eliminating Antony was also desirable.
• Side switching was common. Defectors brought benefits to the new allegiance. King Harod, who was fully indebted to Antony, and brought wealth to cash-strapped Octavian. Octavian had Agrippa and did not need the naval skills of Ahenobarus but his defection deprived Antony of naval leadership.
• Antony’s strategies almost predicted his defeat. Given that he chose Actium, why didn’t he better fortify his supply line? Once supplies were cut off why did he wait as his men weakened from hunger and disease? Why didn’t he go inland for a land war that would better suit his skills?
• For their circumstances at Actium, the “escape” of Antony and Cleopatra was risky, lucky and masterful.
• After the battle both Antony and Cleopatra negotiated separately with Octavian.
• Of the 3 children of Antony and Cleopatra, only their daughter, Seline Cleopatra, appears in future records. Octavian arranged her marriage to Kind Juba II of Mauritania.
I highly recommend this book.
The highlight was, of course, the battle. Even though you know the outcome, you are at the edge of your seat. At the end, the triple triumph for Octavian is great writing in a book of great writing.
I appreciated Strauss’s recounting of the players, their family histories and sides taken in the civil war. Similarly, but in a totally different vein, I also appreciated the description of the warships, their maneuverability, the numbers and positioning of rowers and warriors, structure and ramming capability.
While the book is short, it covers a lot of ground. Here are some takeaways
• Octavian was always in need of cash. There was an army to pay and his resources were always stretched. The wealth was in the East.
• This was Octavian’s war. He was motivated by the need to destroy Caesarian and obtain Cleopatra’s wealth. Eliminating Antony was also desirable.
• Side switching was common. Defectors brought benefits to the new allegiance. King Harod, who was fully indebted to Antony, and brought wealth to cash-strapped Octavian. Octavian had Agrippa and did not need the naval skills of Ahenobarus but his defection deprived Antony of naval leadership.
• Antony’s strategies almost predicted his defeat. Given that he chose Actium, why didn’t he better fortify his supply line? Once supplies were cut off why did he wait as his men weakened from hunger and disease? Why didn’t he go inland for a land war that would better suit his skills?
• For their circumstances at Actium, the “escape” of Antony and Cleopatra was risky, lucky and masterful.
• After the battle both Antony and Cleopatra negotiated separately with Octavian.
• Of the 3 children of Antony and Cleopatra, only their daughter, Seline Cleopatra, appears in future records. Octavian arranged her marriage to Kind Juba II of Mauritania.
I highly recommend this book.
April 1, 2024
Hier kann man ein bedeutendes historisches Ereignis isoliert nachlesen und muss sich nicht ein umfangreiches Werk eines Historikers zur Hand nehmen. Lebendig geschrieben, zugegeben nach meiner Meinung eher ein populärwissenschaftliches Buch.
March 8, 2022
I knew almost nothing about the Battle of Actium before reading this book so this was excellent in filling in some major blanks in my knowledge of ancient Rome. Strauss does a good job of analyzing why anyone interested in ancient Rome should be interested in Actium and the lead-up to Actium and why this period in history is so important- why it could, in fact, have had major world shattering changes had Antony and Cleopatra won the battle (and the war) instead of Octavian and Rome. Strauss also analyzes source material and encourages readers to do the same, which always means we will know more about Rome and see Rome and Octavian in a more positive light since the victors write the histories.
I wasn't always happy with Strauss' writing style- it was often repetitive enough that I wasn't sure if he wasn't paying attention or he thought the reader wasn't paying attention. Better and tighter editing would definitely have made this a better written book.
Overall this is a well-researched history on a time period and people we are more likely to "know" through Hollywood than history. I was glad to read a book that put Antony, Cleopatra, and Alexandria into such solid historical context.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I wasn't always happy with Strauss' writing style- it was often repetitive enough that I wasn't sure if he wasn't paying attention or he thought the reader wasn't paying attention. Better and tighter editing would definitely have made this a better written book.
Overall this is a well-researched history on a time period and people we are more likely to "know" through Hollywood than history. I was glad to read a book that put Antony, Cleopatra, and Alexandria into such solid historical context.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
June 22, 2025
4.5 Star Review – The War That Made the Roman Empire by Barry Strauss
Barry Strauss delivers a gripping and highly focused account in The War That Made the Roman Empire, zeroing in on the epic clash between Octavian, Mark Antony, and Cleopatra. As someone who has read quite a few books on this subject, I found this one refreshingly concise, vivid, and surprisingly hard to put down. Strauss writes with clarity and momentum, making this pivotal chapter of ancient history read like a political thriller.
One of the standout aspects of the book for me was Cleopatra. Her intelligence, ambition, and sheer political savvy make her one of the most compelling figures in ancient history—and Strauss does a fantastic job bringing her complexity to life. She wasn’t just a seductress or pawn, as some histories imply, but a groundbreaking leader who commanded fleets, forged alliances, and dared to challenge Rome itself.
On the other hand, I was surprised by how little admiration I walked away with for Mark Antony. While I’d previously seen him as a tragic or romantic figure, Strauss paints him as far less capable, especially in contrast to Cleopatra and the calculating Octavian. His decline felt both frustrating and revealing.
Another interesting aspect was Strauss’s heavy reliance on English-language sources. As someone who appreciates the richness of classical texts and varied interpretations, I did wish for more engagement with non-English and ancient primary sources. Still, the book remains grounded and accessible, making it an excellent read for both casual readers and history buffs alike.
Overall, The War That Made the Roman Empire deepened my understanding of a familiar subject and brought new energy to the story. A highly engaging read with sharp insights and unforgettable characters. 4.5 stars.
Barry Strauss delivers a gripping and highly focused account in The War That Made the Roman Empire, zeroing in on the epic clash between Octavian, Mark Antony, and Cleopatra. As someone who has read quite a few books on this subject, I found this one refreshingly concise, vivid, and surprisingly hard to put down. Strauss writes with clarity and momentum, making this pivotal chapter of ancient history read like a political thriller.
One of the standout aspects of the book for me was Cleopatra. Her intelligence, ambition, and sheer political savvy make her one of the most compelling figures in ancient history—and Strauss does a fantastic job bringing her complexity to life. She wasn’t just a seductress or pawn, as some histories imply, but a groundbreaking leader who commanded fleets, forged alliances, and dared to challenge Rome itself.
On the other hand, I was surprised by how little admiration I walked away with for Mark Antony. While I’d previously seen him as a tragic or romantic figure, Strauss paints him as far less capable, especially in contrast to Cleopatra and the calculating Octavian. His decline felt both frustrating and revealing.
Another interesting aspect was Strauss’s heavy reliance on English-language sources. As someone who appreciates the richness of classical texts and varied interpretations, I did wish for more engagement with non-English and ancient primary sources. Still, the book remains grounded and accessible, making it an excellent read for both casual readers and history buffs alike.
Overall, The War That Made the Roman Empire deepened my understanding of a familiar subject and brought new energy to the story. A highly engaging read with sharp insights and unforgettable characters. 4.5 stars.
May 16, 2022
Read my review at the Washington Independent Review of Books here:
https://www.washingtonindependentrevi...
https://www.washingtonindependentrevi...
April 26, 2022
Entertaining take on the conflict between Augustus (Octavian Caesar at the time) and Anthony with a focus on the deciding battle at Actium, though the maneuvering pre-Actium was in many ways considerably more decisive and Actium's outcome while not quite preordained as in battle nothing is certain and one side can get very lucky (or very unlucky) was the highly likely one given what happened in the previous months and how the sides started the battle and with what goals; still, there is an intriguing what-if Anthony rather staying on the defensive would have used his superiority in ships and money to try and invade Italy.
Recommended
Recommended
May 17, 2022
Three years ago I read my first Barry Strauss book, which was Ten Caesars: Roman Emperors from Augustus to Constantine, and I really enjoyed it. So of course after that I've been highly anticipating his next book, whatever the topic would be. When I found out it would be about Antony, Cleopatra, Octavian and the battle of Actium I was beyond excited. The three year wait was so worth it because not only did I end up absolutely devouring this book, it's now also my favorite read of the year.
I'm totally obsessed with the end of the Roman Replublic and the start of the Roman Empire because it was such a dramatic time where so many things happened from even before the assassination of Julius Caesar and everything that led up to the rise of emperor Augustus. I just can't read enough about it and Barry Strauss was the perfect author to write about it, in my opinion. I'm actually really impressed with his writing skills and the book because it went beyond my expectations.
This book is one of those nonfictions about a historical event where you know the outcome but it's still so exciting to read, as if you don't know who'll defeat who in the end. I also love the way the author wrote about Cleopatra. In the past authors, male authors in particular, haven't been kind to her because of propaganda, patriarchy and xenophobia. But the author wrote beautifully about the last queen of Egypt. He wrote about her skill as a leader, her intelligence and her ingenuity with languages and battles alike.
The battle at Actium itself was also a treat to read about. This says a lot about Barry Strauss and his talent as a writer because battles can quickly become a little tedious. There was nothing tedious about this battle. It was all exhilarating to read about and also so very fascinating. For example, the fact that we actually know some of the names of the regular soldiers who fought in the battle at Actium is really mindblowing to me because I don't think we usually know a lot about those people.
The War That Made the Roman Empire: Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian at Actium by Barry S. Strauss is nonfiction at its finest. When it comes to ancient Roman history, especially ancient military history, I can't recommend this author high enough. It's an oustanding read!
I'm totally obsessed with the end of the Roman Replublic and the start of the Roman Empire because it was such a dramatic time where so many things happened from even before the assassination of Julius Caesar and everything that led up to the rise of emperor Augustus. I just can't read enough about it and Barry Strauss was the perfect author to write about it, in my opinion. I'm actually really impressed with his writing skills and the book because it went beyond my expectations.
This book is one of those nonfictions about a historical event where you know the outcome but it's still so exciting to read, as if you don't know who'll defeat who in the end. I also love the way the author wrote about Cleopatra. In the past authors, male authors in particular, haven't been kind to her because of propaganda, patriarchy and xenophobia. But the author wrote beautifully about the last queen of Egypt. He wrote about her skill as a leader, her intelligence and her ingenuity with languages and battles alike.
The battle at Actium itself was also a treat to read about. This says a lot about Barry Strauss and his talent as a writer because battles can quickly become a little tedious. There was nothing tedious about this battle. It was all exhilarating to read about and also so very fascinating. For example, the fact that we actually know some of the names of the regular soldiers who fought in the battle at Actium is really mindblowing to me because I don't think we usually know a lot about those people.
The War That Made the Roman Empire: Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian at Actium by Barry S. Strauss is nonfiction at its finest. When it comes to ancient Roman history, especially ancient military history, I can't recommend this author high enough. It's an oustanding read!
February 12, 2022
The history of a war is usually written by the victors, especially the further back in time it happened. Author Barry Strauss covers the events prior to the Battle of Actium in 31 B.C. and the interesting people of the time period prior to Caesar's assassination until the battle, and shortly afterward. He presents the facts that are generally agreed on, but he is clear about the bias of the ancient writers when it appears obvious. The betrayals of people are brutal, especially for Marcus Antonius, but Octavian had a few betrayals too. Both sides were liars in their propaganda campaigns just like today actually. Cleopatra still remains mysterious, and I wish archaeologists would find her tomb or a stash of papyrus that would show a fairer side of her story. Although Marcus Antonius had more battle experience than Octavian, he seems to have really blundered at Actium, one of the largest naval battles of the ancient world, on the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean. Sea. Marcus Agrippa, the admir.al of Octavian's forces was the real reason Octavian won and Marcus Antonius lost so many men and ships. Though he and Cleopatra broke away and prolonged the war, Alexandria did not become the center of a new, different empire. Professor Strauss includes notes on the sources used and writes for the layperson which I also enjoyed in his "The Death of Caesar: The Story of History's Most Famous Assassination." Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for a honest review.
August 17, 2023
A clear and readable work.
Straus does a good job describing the politics of the time, as well as the lives of Octavian, Antony, Cleopatra, and their followers. The coverage of strategy, tactics, and propaganda is good. His coverage of Antony and Cleopatra is careful, given that much of what was written about them was written when Octavian was in power, and Strauss doesn’t consider their defeat inevitable. He assigns much credit to Marcus Agrippa. His coverage of Antony is a bit more positive than some other historians. He also shows how often many powerful figures changed sides in the war.
The narrative is strong and insightful and moves along at a smooth pace. It’s entertaining but the writing sometimes feels flat, breezy or kind of simplistic. Strauss seems to exaggerate Cleopatra’s accomplishments and importance, though he does admit the importance of her relationships with Caesar and Antony. He occasionally makes some comparisons to modern-day things: he even uses the term “REMFs” at one point (the full phrase, I mean), or things like “Rome & Egypt Inc.” Pinarius is compared to a “gangland kingpin.” He also uses exclamation points. It can also be a bit repetitive. Still, Strauss is careful with the source material. The maps are good.
A well-written and well-researched work.
Straus does a good job describing the politics of the time, as well as the lives of Octavian, Antony, Cleopatra, and their followers. The coverage of strategy, tactics, and propaganda is good. His coverage of Antony and Cleopatra is careful, given that much of what was written about them was written when Octavian was in power, and Strauss doesn’t consider their defeat inevitable. He assigns much credit to Marcus Agrippa. His coverage of Antony is a bit more positive than some other historians. He also shows how often many powerful figures changed sides in the war.
The narrative is strong and insightful and moves along at a smooth pace. It’s entertaining but the writing sometimes feels flat, breezy or kind of simplistic. Strauss seems to exaggerate Cleopatra’s accomplishments and importance, though he does admit the importance of her relationships with Caesar and Antony. He occasionally makes some comparisons to modern-day things: he even uses the term “REMFs” at one point (the full phrase, I mean), or things like “Rome & Egypt Inc.” Pinarius is compared to a “gangland kingpin.” He also uses exclamation points. It can also be a bit repetitive. Still, Strauss is careful with the source material. The maps are good.
A well-written and well-researched work.
August 15, 2024
If you enjoyed the series "Rome," you'll love this book, because it basically covers the same time period. Antony, Cleopatra and Octavian (known to us as Caesar Augustus) must be the most interesting people in European history, and what happened with them more than 2000 years ago made the West what it is today (for better or worse). The author really brings these people to life, both the good and the bad -- and the bad is quite bad. The Romans interest me because on the one hand they were a brilliant and cultured people, and on the other they were also cruel and barbaric even by the standards of their time. Definitely a good read for anyone who likes ancient history!
July 14, 2023
A thoroughly enjoyable novel about the most important turning point for the most important empire in western history. Barry Strauss paints vivid picture of the wars leading up to the battle of Actium and the ascension of Rome’s first emperor, Augustus. Strauss writes in an accessible style that does not lack detail, nor does it forgo well researched and accurate historical details and facts. He creates engaging story throughout the 290 pages, starting from Anthony’s campaigns with Julius Caesar and ending with the three triumphs of Augustus Caesar. Sifting through the bias of historical records, Strauss illuminates the complexity of Anthony and Cleopatra’s relationship and situation to allow readers to sympathise, and also understand Anthony and Cleopatra‘s position in that faithful time in history. This, however, does not create an unfair representation of the two lovers and diplomats, because Strauss also demonstrates with voracious sophistication the genius of Octavian and his best friend turned admiral, Agrippa. And this is where Strauss shines the most in his depiction of those persons whose involvement in these wars is not as bluntly known to a wider audience. Namely, the influence of exceptional generals, but also the attention and weight that he puts onto the stories of the women involved in the conflicts throughout the late 1st century BC. All in all, I would highly recommend Barry Strauss’ excellent novel as a starting point for learning about this time in history, However, I also recommend it purely for the enjoyment which his accessible style offers readers.
April 9, 2022
How do you write a 300-page book on a battle about which we know very, very little? Strauss manages to do so and to keep it engaging the whole time (the actual description of the action at Actium is only a few pages). He traces the long and intertwined histories of the three main players that led up to that world-altering sea battle off the west coast of Greece.
Strauss doesn't play favorites--each principal had his (or her) flaws. Neither does he shy away from admitting when the historical record is sparse or else skewed by Augustus' later memoirs. What he does best is to show the likely bases and results of the various players' decisions--he is quite astute in this regard. This leads to a fast-reading book that is as informative as it is engaging.
Strauss doesn't play favorites--each principal had his (or her) flaws. Neither does he shy away from admitting when the historical record is sparse or else skewed by Augustus' later memoirs. What he does best is to show the likely bases and results of the various players' decisions--he is quite astute in this regard. This leads to a fast-reading book that is as informative as it is engaging.
February 17, 2022
This book was well written and an engaging read. It covers the interplay over time between Antony, Cleopatra and Octavian that led to the war at Actium. I learned some new details about that time period and I enjoyed the fact that Cleopatra was an astute politician which is rarely presented when discussing her. This book is much more than just the War between Antony and Cleopatra versus Octavian. I recommend this to anyone who has an interest in this time period.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of Net Galley and the publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Net Galley, Goodreads, Amazon, Facebook and my nonfiction book review blog.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of Net Galley and the publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Net Galley, Goodreads, Amazon, Facebook and my nonfiction book review blog.
June 4, 2025
This was a fantastic read, a shockingly easy to follow (though I have a pretty good knowledge of the basics) book that had the Battle of Actium, which honestly launched the Roman Empire, as its central focus. However, the author did a great job of the lead up and the afterword, which showed just how important Actium was, particularly for a battle about which we don't have any play-by-play accounts remaining. I appreciated the appreciation for female power that the author made sure to take into consideration, in all its aspects, whether as queen, wife, sister, daughter, ex-wife, or seductress...and for Cleopatra, all of these combined! I would definitely read more from Barry Strauss! (Also, always shedding a tear for poor Caesarion.)
September 2, 2021
I have just finished my read of "The War That Made The Roman Empire: Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian at Actium," by Barry Strauss to be published by Simon & Schuster in the near future (my thanks to the publisher for providing me with an ARC for review). The book is far more than a simple recitation of events surrounding the famous sea battle of Actium, which pitted the combined fleets of Antony and Cleopatra against the naval forces of Octavian (soon to be Caesar Augustus) after the tumultuous events surrounding the assassination of Julius Caesar by his political enemies in the Roman Senate. Indeed, much of the charm of the narrative resides in its polished explication of the events leading up to the climactic battle and defeat of Antony and Cleopatra. Most interesting is the way in which the author uses modern insights to explore the use of spin and propaganda by all
of the principal combatants and the way in which their manipulation of the "media" of the time lends itself to the modern cliche of the paradigm of "fake news." I found the narrative thoroughly engaging and well documented. The author is clearly the master of his material, and I have seldom seen a more fully developed exploration of the very complex relationship between the three protagonists. I strongly recommend the text to anyone interested in a better understanding of how the Roman Republic became the Roman Imperium.
of the principal combatants and the way in which their manipulation of the "media" of the time lends itself to the modern cliche of the paradigm of "fake news." I found the narrative thoroughly engaging and well documented. The author is clearly the master of his material, and I have seldom seen a more fully developed exploration of the very complex relationship between the three protagonists. I strongly recommend the text to anyone interested in a better understanding of how the Roman Republic became the Roman Imperium.
August 12, 2022
This book changed my views on Anthony and Cleopatra. Prior to reading this, my outlook had primarily been formed by Plutarch (and yes Shakespeare also). Strauss showed me that they were in fact much more complex, capable, and extremely powerful individuals than I had thought.
That entire period was amazing. It was by no means pre-ordained that Octavian would triumph; and had Anthony and Cleopatra prevailed, the world would be a very different place now.
I hadn't been aware of how important Marcus Agrippa, the leader of Octavian's forces, was to Octavian's victory. His skill and loyalty were major to Octavian emerging triumphant .
Stephanie's review is the one that got me to read this book. I suggest you read her review if you are considering this book.
All in all, a good history told in great detail.
4+ stars.
That entire period was amazing. It was by no means pre-ordained that Octavian would triumph; and had Anthony and Cleopatra prevailed, the world would be a very different place now.
I hadn't been aware of how important Marcus Agrippa, the leader of Octavian's forces, was to Octavian's victory. His skill and loyalty were major to Octavian emerging triumphant .
Stephanie's review is the one that got me to read this book. I suggest you read her review if you are considering this book.
All in all, a good history told in great detail.
4+ stars.
January 23, 2025
Very interesting book about the making of the Roman Empire. It takes you through the history of the area from the times of Julius Caesar, through how Caesar Augustus (then called Octavian) became the first emperor of the Roman Empire. The book goes into a lot of detail of the relationships between Octavian, Mark Antony, and Cleopatra. A lot of twists and turns and people changing allegiances throughout the time period. If you enjoy history, especially ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman history, you will find this book an enjoyable read.
March 3, 2024
Caesar was murdered by members of the Roman Senate. They believed Caesar was positioning himself to become a dictator and threatening the republic. In his will, Caesar overlooked his protege, Mark Antony, and called his nephew, Octavian, his adopted son and named him beneficiary. A few years earlier, Caesar had an affair with Cleopatra and they had a son, Caesarion. He was not mentioned in the will and Caesar never claimed him nor denied him.
Octavian and Mark Antony put aside their differences and got Caesar’s killers. Afterward, they divided the empire. Octavian controlled the western portion of the empire and Mark Antony the eastern. Mark Antony abandoned his wife, Octavian’s sister, for Cleopatra. And eventually, the 2 big kids on the block are going to fight. Octavian won. And you probably know what happened to the losers? But what about Caesar’s only son? And what about Mark Antony and Cleopatra’s children?
The author is clear to state what he knows from what is speculation. An account from Mark Antony and Cleopatra of these events has never been discovered. The book is very well researched and detailed. A bit wordy for me perhaps. And another example of how ruthless powerful people can be.
Octavian and Mark Antony put aside their differences and got Caesar’s killers. Afterward, they divided the empire. Octavian controlled the western portion of the empire and Mark Antony the eastern. Mark Antony abandoned his wife, Octavian’s sister, for Cleopatra. And eventually, the 2 big kids on the block are going to fight. Octavian won. And you probably know what happened to the losers? But what about Caesar’s only son? And what about Mark Antony and Cleopatra’s children?
The author is clear to state what he knows from what is speculation. An account from Mark Antony and Cleopatra of these events has never been discovered. The book is very well researched and detailed. A bit wordy for me perhaps. And another example of how ruthless powerful people can be.
December 23, 2025
Being aware of some of the negative reviews that other folks have posted about this book, and at this point being skeptical of anyone associated with the Hoover Institute, I was wondering whether I wanted to actually read this work.
That said I actually did wind up enjoying this study of the wars of the Second Triumvirate, and I think that Strauss does a good job of explaining a complicated subject to a general audience; always keeping in mind the problematic nature of our sources.
Actual rating: 3.5.
That said I actually did wind up enjoying this study of the wars of the Second Triumvirate, and I think that Strauss does a good job of explaining a complicated subject to a general audience; always keeping in mind the problematic nature of our sources.
Actual rating: 3.5.
July 22, 2025
Detailed, but not pedantic; at times brilliantly told. Overall I enjoyed this history of the war between Octavius and Marc Antony that led to the foundation of the Roman Empire.
May 30, 2022
Actually gave up at page 136. Badly organized, dots around, and too many garbage sentences starting "We might imagine...." Pretty much SOP from a guy now collecting wingnut welfare from the Hoover Institution who thanks a war criminal and a lunatic in the acknowledgments. I might add that I've read and found valuable a number of Strauss's books, but this is an embarrassing mess.
March 18, 2022
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of The War That Made the Roman Empire: Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian at Actium. This riveting nonfiction book depicts the build up and fall out of one of the largest naval battles in the ancient world. It’s no exaggeration to say that events at Actium determined the future of the Roman Empire and shaped the Western world as we know it today.
I’ve studied a bit about Cleopatra and the Roman Empire, but I knew very little about the era described in this book. Barry Strauss has done an amazing job of portraying Cleopatra, Antony, and Octavian as real human beings. I was especially impressed that he avoided the usual sexist stereotypes around Cleopatra and instead showed her as the intelligent, powerful political entity she really was.
In contrast to many depictions of this event, Barry Strauss does not portray the outcome of the war as a foregone conclusion. It could very easily have gone the other way and Strauss paints an evocative picture of an empire hung in the balance.
The author had no little challenge in writing this book as the sources are either missing or incredibly biased. He uses what he calls “informed speculation” to reconstruct events. Although of course we can’t really know what happened, I find his theories very solid and believable. It also invites the reader to put themselves in Octavian, Antony, and Cleopatra’s shoes and try to get a sense of their motivations.
Refreshingly, Octavia (Octavian’s sister and Antony’s wife) is also given due consideration as a political player rather than just the jilted wife or wronged sister. The entire Roman/Eastern world is fleshed out in all its connections, alliances, backstabbings, and betrayals. Truly, modern soap operas pale in comparison to the drama of this era!
I had so many misconceptions about Antony and Cleopatra’s last stand thanks to Octavian’s long-lasting propaganda so I was fascinated to read Strauss’ take on what really happened. I found it entertaining, well-written, and thought-provoking. A fabulous piece of nonfiction that I’m glad I picked up!
I’ve studied a bit about Cleopatra and the Roman Empire, but I knew very little about the era described in this book. Barry Strauss has done an amazing job of portraying Cleopatra, Antony, and Octavian as real human beings. I was especially impressed that he avoided the usual sexist stereotypes around Cleopatra and instead showed her as the intelligent, powerful political entity she really was.
In contrast to many depictions of this event, Barry Strauss does not portray the outcome of the war as a foregone conclusion. It could very easily have gone the other way and Strauss paints an evocative picture of an empire hung in the balance.
The author had no little challenge in writing this book as the sources are either missing or incredibly biased. He uses what he calls “informed speculation” to reconstruct events. Although of course we can’t really know what happened, I find his theories very solid and believable. It also invites the reader to put themselves in Octavian, Antony, and Cleopatra’s shoes and try to get a sense of their motivations.
Refreshingly, Octavia (Octavian’s sister and Antony’s wife) is also given due consideration as a political player rather than just the jilted wife or wronged sister. The entire Roman/Eastern world is fleshed out in all its connections, alliances, backstabbings, and betrayals. Truly, modern soap operas pale in comparison to the drama of this era!
I had so many misconceptions about Antony and Cleopatra’s last stand thanks to Octavian’s long-lasting propaganda so I was fascinated to read Strauss’ take on what really happened. I found it entertaining, well-written, and thought-provoking. A fabulous piece of nonfiction that I’m glad I picked up!
June 7, 2022
Cleopatra was a descendant of the Ptolemies dynasty that had ruled Egypt for 300 years. Her son with Julius Cesar would be the last of her dynasty and Egypt's last pharaoh. Ptolemy was one of Alexander the Great's marshals and the real leader behind the creation of the city of Alexandria which used to be the center of the world even in Roman times. After two centuries of decline and defeat, she turned around her country's fate. She presided over prosperity. She won great popularity among her people. Abroad, sh erased Egypt to a position of power and influence that it had not healed for generations. She even threatened to conquer Rome. Cleopatra was the greatest Macedonian ruler since Alexander the Great and one of the most influential women rulers in Egypt.
In 48 BC Julius Cesar came to Egypt looking for money to support his side on a civil war. Cleopatra's supported him in exchange of Julius Cesar's support her on the claim to the throne which her brother had forced off the throne. Within a month of their meeting, she was pregnant with his son.
After the assassination of Julius Cesar, there was a triumvirate headed by Octavio, Antonio and Marcus Lepidus. Eventually Antonio and Octavio would fight in a civil war that would change the fate of the Western world.
Life in Rom during the last 50 years of the first century BC, was plagued by backstabbing, treason, chaining sides, and the worst political practices that really made me re imagine what I had known about the Republic and its transition to an Empire.
Anthony was the closest person to Julius Cesar. He married Octavia, Octavio's sister. Octavia played a key role in politics in her time and endured Anthony's affair with Cleopatra and would ultimately look after the three children Anthony had with Cleopatra as well as their own children. Octavio was adopted by Julius Cesar and was really his nephew.
Cesarian was actually the son of Julius Cesar and Cleopatra who ruled Egypt for a month after his mother's death before he was assassinated by Anthony. He was the last ruler of the house on Ptolemy and the last Pharaoh of Egypt.
The battle of Actium seems to have been the most important touring point in the conflict between Anthony/Cleopatra who were trying to conquer Rome and Octavian who was trying to attack Egypt. Anthony had a bad location with poor access to water and food. It took him too long to asses his army. At the end, famine and sickness killed more of his soldiers than actual battle and when he was finally ready for battle his troops were decimated and ill prepared. The biggest loss was not in the battlefield (where sick and weak soldiers lost to Octavian troops) but in a sea battle were Agrippa dominated and destroyed the reduced force Anthony and Cleopatra had. These two were lucky to escape to Egypt where they lived for a year before they met their end. From Egypt they planned to escape to India, but their vessels were burned to avoid this.
In September 30 BC Anthony launches an attack by infantry, cavalry and sea. Both his cavalry and navy changed sides and he came to his demise. When he went back to Alexandria, Cleopatra sent her servants to say she was dead and he committed suicide by stating himself in the stomach with a sword. He didn't die immediately and was brought to Cleopatra's mausoleum where she was hiding. She received him and mourned him and eventually committed suicide once she realized she could not negotiate with Octavian.
Octavian ended the 300 rule of thee Ptolomey dynasty in Egypt and the 3,000 regime of Egyptian kings. At the same time he changed the republic into an empire that gave way to the birth of the Western World.
I learnt how small the city of Rome was at the time of the highest moment of Alexandria. Alexandria was really the center of the world.
The book is about what happened between the assassination of Julius Cesar en 44 BC to the ascent of power of Octavian in 30 BC.
In 48 BC Julius Cesar came to Egypt looking for money to support his side on a civil war. Cleopatra's supported him in exchange of Julius Cesar's support her on the claim to the throne which her brother had forced off the throne. Within a month of their meeting, she was pregnant with his son.
After the assassination of Julius Cesar, there was a triumvirate headed by Octavio, Antonio and Marcus Lepidus. Eventually Antonio and Octavio would fight in a civil war that would change the fate of the Western world.
Life in Rom during the last 50 years of the first century BC, was plagued by backstabbing, treason, chaining sides, and the worst political practices that really made me re imagine what I had known about the Republic and its transition to an Empire.
Anthony was the closest person to Julius Cesar. He married Octavia, Octavio's sister. Octavia played a key role in politics in her time and endured Anthony's affair with Cleopatra and would ultimately look after the three children Anthony had with Cleopatra as well as their own children. Octavio was adopted by Julius Cesar and was really his nephew.
Cesarian was actually the son of Julius Cesar and Cleopatra who ruled Egypt for a month after his mother's death before he was assassinated by Anthony. He was the last ruler of the house on Ptolemy and the last Pharaoh of Egypt.
The battle of Actium seems to have been the most important touring point in the conflict between Anthony/Cleopatra who were trying to conquer Rome and Octavian who was trying to attack Egypt. Anthony had a bad location with poor access to water and food. It took him too long to asses his army. At the end, famine and sickness killed more of his soldiers than actual battle and when he was finally ready for battle his troops were decimated and ill prepared. The biggest loss was not in the battlefield (where sick and weak soldiers lost to Octavian troops) but in a sea battle were Agrippa dominated and destroyed the reduced force Anthony and Cleopatra had. These two were lucky to escape to Egypt where they lived for a year before they met their end. From Egypt they planned to escape to India, but their vessels were burned to avoid this.
In September 30 BC Anthony launches an attack by infantry, cavalry and sea. Both his cavalry and navy changed sides and he came to his demise. When he went back to Alexandria, Cleopatra sent her servants to say she was dead and he committed suicide by stating himself in the stomach with a sword. He didn't die immediately and was brought to Cleopatra's mausoleum where she was hiding. She received him and mourned him and eventually committed suicide once she realized she could not negotiate with Octavian.
Octavian ended the 300 rule of thee Ptolomey dynasty in Egypt and the 3,000 regime of Egyptian kings. At the same time he changed the republic into an empire that gave way to the birth of the Western World.
I learnt how small the city of Rome was at the time of the highest moment of Alexandria. Alexandria was really the center of the world.
The book is about what happened between the assassination of Julius Cesar en 44 BC to the ascent of power of Octavian in 30 BC.
January 10, 2024
3,5* de fapt.
Bătălia navală de la Actium (oraș pe coasta de vest a Greciei, cam pe la jumătatea acesteia) din septembrie 31 î.Hr. a marcat înfrângerea lui Marc Antoniu și a partenerei sale, regina egipteană Cleopatra, în fața lui Octavian Caesar, viitorul Augustus, viitorul prim împărat al Imperiului Roman.
Autorul este profesor american la Universitatea Cornell, specializat pe istorica antică, a publicat 12 cărți iar aceasta este cea mai recentă, apărând în 2022. Bineînțeles că nu tratează doar bătălia propriu-zisă, ci și toate evenimentele directe care au dus la aceasta, începând de la asasinarea lui Julius Caesar. Evident că ne sunt prezentați marii jucători, cei din titlu, biografiile lor preluate din surse antice, exclusiv părtinitoare și pro-Octavian (din păcate, singurele care ne-au rămas). Iar acolo unde sursele nu sunt de ajuns, istoricul trebuie să emită judecăți proprii, de preferabil obiective și de bun simț. Practic, Barry Strauss e forțat să facă aceasta de câteva ori, tranșând unele mistere antice, alegând practic un punct de vedere. Sperăm deci, că experiența sa profesională este suficientă pentru a-l îndeletnici să facă alegerea care respectă cel mai mult realitatea. Lectura nu este palpitantă, aceasta fiind o carte de istorie (neacademică, dar totuși exigentă dpdv al datelor, numelor de locuri și de personaje episodice care se perindă de-a lungul anilor prezentați), iar autorul nu se dă în lături de la lungi analepse și mini-capitole descriptive în care relatează și lucruri care au mai puțină legătură cu momentul istoric principal în sine. În rest, totul este foarte bine pus la punct, la modul silitor aproape: bibliografia, indexul, sursele și notițele de subsol. Totuși, probabil un titlu mai atrăgător ar fi servit mai bine intereselor pecuniare ale operei.
PS: ediția autohtonă de la Polirom prezintă hărțile și ilustrațiile color din original, chiar dacă sunt doar în alb-negru, o alegere care, din nou, probabil le-a economisit o grămadă de bani.
Bătălia navală de la Actium (oraș pe coasta de vest a Greciei, cam pe la jumătatea acesteia) din septembrie 31 î.Hr. a marcat înfrângerea lui Marc Antoniu și a partenerei sale, regina egipteană Cleopatra, în fața lui Octavian Caesar, viitorul Augustus, viitorul prim împărat al Imperiului Roman.
Autorul este profesor american la Universitatea Cornell, specializat pe istorica antică, a publicat 12 cărți iar aceasta este cea mai recentă, apărând în 2022. Bineînțeles că nu tratează doar bătălia propriu-zisă, ci și toate evenimentele directe care au dus la aceasta, începând de la asasinarea lui Julius Caesar. Evident că ne sunt prezentați marii jucători, cei din titlu, biografiile lor preluate din surse antice, exclusiv părtinitoare și pro-Octavian (din păcate, singurele care ne-au rămas). Iar acolo unde sursele nu sunt de ajuns, istoricul trebuie să emită judecăți proprii, de preferabil obiective și de bun simț. Practic, Barry Strauss e forțat să facă aceasta de câteva ori, tranșând unele mistere antice, alegând practic un punct de vedere. Sperăm deci, că experiența sa profesională este suficientă pentru a-l îndeletnici să facă alegerea care respectă cel mai mult realitatea. Lectura nu este palpitantă, aceasta fiind o carte de istorie (neacademică, dar totuși exigentă dpdv al datelor, numelor de locuri și de personaje episodice care se perindă de-a lungul anilor prezentați), iar autorul nu se dă în lături de la lungi analepse și mini-capitole descriptive în care relatează și lucruri care au mai puțină legătură cu momentul istoric principal în sine. În rest, totul este foarte bine pus la punct, la modul silitor aproape: bibliografia, indexul, sursele și notițele de subsol. Totuși, probabil un titlu mai atrăgător ar fi servit mai bine intereselor pecuniare ale operei.
PS: ediția autohtonă de la Polirom prezintă hărțile și ilustrațiile color din original, chiar dacă sunt doar în alb-negru, o alegere care, din nou, probabil le-a economisit o grămadă de bani.
November 27, 2025
A pretty great look at Octavian’s struggle with Mark Antony over the Roman Empire following the death of Caesar and the establishment of the Second Triumvirate.
I think the name of the book kind of lies as to what it’s about. Though it focuses on the rivalry between Octavian and Mark Antony, and focuses significantly on Actium, the book generally discusses the rise to power of Octavian, particularly after the Battle of Phillipi. I enjoyed this for what it was, I learned a fair bit especially about Mark Antony. I didn’t realise how powerful his domain was. I also gained even more appreciation for Sextus Pompey, quite probably one of the most underrated generals of them all. Overall, would recommend this to anyone looking to learn more about the rise of the Roman Empire following Caesar’s assassination.
I think the name of the book kind of lies as to what it’s about. Though it focuses on the rivalry between Octavian and Mark Antony, and focuses significantly on Actium, the book generally discusses the rise to power of Octavian, particularly after the Battle of Phillipi. I enjoyed this for what it was, I learned a fair bit especially about Mark Antony. I didn’t realise how powerful his domain was. I also gained even more appreciation for Sextus Pompey, quite probably one of the most underrated generals of them all. Overall, would recommend this to anyone looking to learn more about the rise of the Roman Empire following Caesar’s assassination.
January 13, 2024
Somewhere between three and four stars. This is a very well researched book, with a lot of good and solid detail about the circumstances surrounding Actium and the key players. While most of the sources still around from this period /are/ Augustan propaganda, I did find the book leaned into that with some authorial bias too - the author is clearly a big fan of Agrippa in particular (and it's nice to see credit where credit is due there), and also Augustus himself. It made for a strange but interesting perspective on Cleopatra - Strauss had a lot of empathic and positive thoughts on the queen but it did not come without those Augustan biases in the same tide.
The fall of the Republic is a fascinating time period, and this book really puts out a good overview of a very specific part of it - the very end, where Strauss is right in that the future of Rome was very much up in the air until this battle. I liked how he emphasized that throughout the book, as well as the importance of both Cleopatra and the city of Alexandria, both in the moment and for the legacy of it all.
The fall of the Republic is a fascinating time period, and this book really puts out a good overview of a very specific part of it - the very end, where Strauss is right in that the future of Rome was very much up in the air until this battle. I liked how he emphasized that throughout the book, as well as the importance of both Cleopatra and the city of Alexandria, both in the moment and for the legacy of it all.
July 2, 2023
This was an incredible read!
The author handles ancient history by providing a plausible account of events, explaining the sources to back it up, and acknowledging that we will likely never know the full story.
The author does not assume the reader’s knowledge, offering context at appropriate times, and keeps the story moving in a fun and engaging way. He really brought Marc Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian to life, and painted a vivid picture of all of the battles and challenges they faced.
If you’re interested in history I wholeheartedly recommend this book, very fun and informative from start to finish!
The author handles ancient history by providing a plausible account of events, explaining the sources to back it up, and acknowledging that we will likely never know the full story.
The author does not assume the reader’s knowledge, offering context at appropriate times, and keeps the story moving in a fun and engaging way. He really brought Marc Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian to life, and painted a vivid picture of all of the battles and challenges they faced.
If you’re interested in history I wholeheartedly recommend this book, very fun and informative from start to finish!
May 17, 2022
A very thorough account of a time in history I previously knew little about. In my experience the book starts slow, but is well worth the commitment. The first 2/3 is saturated with details and historical accounts. Once the book gets into the throes of the Battle at Actium and beyond, Strauss commits to a more narrative style, which is really enjoyable. I picked up this book blind with no recommendation. However, I can say I highly recommend the work for anyone wanting a solid, but digestible slice of Roman history.
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