Books like The Age of Augustus by Werner Eck

Werner Eck, a leading scholar of the Roman Empire, offers an accessible yet scholarly account of Augustus, Rome’s first emperor. Drawing on literary texts, archaeological finds, and legal documents, the book traces the "Roman revolution" that transformed the Republic into a monarchy. Eck details Augustus’s ascent through the bloody Battle of Philippi, his conflict with Antony and Cleopatra, and his consolidation of power. The narrative then explores the emperor’s reign: territorial expansion, relationship with the legions, the welfare of the citizenry, and the ambitious building programmes that reshaped Rome. The English edition includes a new translation of Augustus’ Res Gestae with a brief introduction, a substantial bibliography, and a clear chronological structure that makes the work ideal for newcomers to Roman history.

First publish date: November 1, 2002