Description
Tracing the extraordinary trajectory of the great Roman emperor’s life, Goldsworthy covers not only his accomplishments as a charismatic orator, conquering general, and powerful dictator but also lesser-known chapters: he was high priest of an exotic cult, captive of pirates, and a seducer not only of Cleopatra but also of the wives of his two main political rivals, as well as a rebel condemned by his own country. Ultimately, Goldsworthy reveals the full complexity of Caesar’s character and shows why his political and military leadership continues to resonate some two thousand years later.
In the introduction to his biography, Adrian Goldsworthy writes, “Caesar was at times many things, including a fugitive, prisoner, rising politician, army leader, legal advocate, rebel, dictator . . . as well as husband, father, lover and adulterer.” In this landmark biography, Goldsworthy examines Caesar as a military leader and in all of these roles, placing his subject firmly within the context of Roman society in the first century B.C.
Endorsements
Named 2006 Best Book of the Year by Amazon.com
“An authoritative and exciting portrait not only of Caesar but of the complex society in which he lived.” — Steven Coates, New York Times Book Review
“The best introduction to Caesar and his world that is currently available.” — Karl Galinsky, Bookforum