The Roman History: The Reign of Augustus

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Augustus Caesar, the first emperor of Rome (27 BC-AD 14), brought peace and prosperity to his city after decades of savage civil war. This selection from Cassius Dio’s Roman History gives the fullest description of that long struggle and ultimate triumph – detailing the brutal battles and political feuds that led to the collapse of Rome’s 400-year-old republic, and Augustus’ subsequent reign as emperor. Included are accounts of military campaigns from Ethiopia to Yugoslavia, and of long conflict with Antony and Cleopatra. With skill and artistry, Dio brings to life many speeches from the era – among them Augustus’ damning indictment of Antony’s passion for the Egyptian queen – and provides a fascinating account of the debate between the great general Agrippa and Maecenas on the virtues of republicanism and monarchy.

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