The Complete Roman Army - Goldsworthy, Adrian Review & Synopsis

 Synopsis

 "An outstanding general study of the Roman military system. . . . The best one-volume treatment of the subject now in existence."-Historian 

 The Roman army was one of the most successful fighting forces in history. Its organization and tactics were highly advanced and were unequaled until the modern era. Spectacular monuments to its perseverance and engineering skill are still visible today, most notably Hadrian's Wall and the siegeworks around the fortress of Masada.

 This book is the first to examine in detail not just the early imperial army but also the citizens' militia of the Republic and the army of the later Empire. The unprecedented scope and longevity of Roman military success is placed in the context of ordinary soldiers' daily lives, whether spent in the quiet routine of a peaceful garrison or in arduous campaign and violent combat. Key battles and tactics are described, and there are brief biographies of the great commanders.

 Drawing on archaeology, ancient art, and original documentary sources, this book presents the most convincing history ever published of the Roman army. 245 illustrations, 107 in color

Review

Adrian Goldsworthy is an English historian whose publications include The Roman Army at War: 100 BC-AD 200, The Complete Roman Army, Roman Warfare, The Punic Wars, and Cannae."If you or someone you love has an interest in Rome, ancient history, or military history, this would make an excellent gift come Christmas."

 - Portland Book Review 

The Complete Roman Army

“An outstanding general study of the Roman military system. . . . The best one-volume treatment of the subject now in existence.”—Historian The Roman army was one of the most successful fighting forces in history. Its organization and tactics were highly advanced and were unequaled until the modern era. Spectacular monuments to its perseverance and engineering skill are still visible today, most notably Hadrian’s Wall and the siegeworks around the fortress of Masada. This book is the first to examine in detail not just the early imperial army but also the citizens’ militia of the Republic and the army of the later Empire. The unprecedented scope and longevity of Roman military success is placed in the context of ordinary soldiers’ daily lives, whether spent in the quiet routine of a peaceful garrison or in arduous campaign and violent combat. Key battles and tactics are described, and there are brief biographies of the great commanders. Drawing on archaeology, ancient art, and original documentary sources, this book presents the most convincing history ever published of the Roman army.

This book is the first to examine in detail not just the early imperial army but also the citizens’ militia of the Republic and the army of the later Empire."

In the Name of Rome

The complete and definitive history of how Roman generals carved out the greatest and longest-lasting empire the world has ever seen. The Roman army was one of the most effective fighting forces in history. The legions and their commanders carved out an empire which eventually included the greater part of the known world. This was thanks largely to the generals who led the Roman army to victory after victory, and whose strategic and tactical decisions shaped the course of several centuries of warfare. This book, by the author of THE PUNIC WARS, concentrates on those Roman generals who displayed exceptional gifts of leadership and who won the greatest victories. With 26 chapters covering the entire span of the Roman Empire, it is a complete history of Roman warfare.

This book, by the author of THE PUNIC WARS, concentrates on those Roman generals who displayed exceptional gifts of leadership and who won the greatest victories."

Roman Warfare

From an award-winning historian of ancient Rome, a concise and comprehensive history of the fighting forces that created the Roman Empire Roman warfare was relentless in its pursuit of victory. A ruthless approach to combat played a major part in Rome's history, creating an empire that eventually included much of Europe, the Near East and North Africa. What distinguished the Roman army from its opponents was the uncompromising and total destruction of its enemies. Yet this ferocity was combined with a genius for absorbing conquered peoples, creating one of the most enduring empires ever known. In Roman Warfare, celebrated historian Adrian Goldsworthy traces the history of Roman warfare from 753 BC, the traditional date of the founding of Rome by Romulus, to the eventual decline and fall of Roman Empire and attempts to recover Rome and Italy from the "barbarians" in the sixth century AD. It is the indispensable history of the most professional fighting force in ancient history, an army that created an Empire and changed the world.

In Roman Warfare, celebrated historian Adrian Goldsworthy traces the history of Roman warfare from 753 BC, the traditional date of the founding of Rome by Romulus, to the eventual decline and fall of Roman Empire and attempts to recover ..."

The Roman Army at War

This detailed examination of the way in which the Roman army operated during a war and how it fought a battle breaks away from existing studies, which mostly concentrate on the army in peacetime, and attempts to understand the army as an institution whose ultimate purpose was to wage war.Adrian Goldsworthy explores the influence to the Roman army's organization on its behaviour during a campaign, emphasizing its great flexibility in comparison to most of its opponents. He considers the factors determining the result of a conflict and proposes, contrary to orthodox opinion, that theRoman army was able to adapt successfully to any type of warfare. Following the technique pioneered by John Keegan in The Face of Battle (1976), Dr Goldsworthy builds up a precise picture of what happened during battle: tactics employed, weaponry, leadership, behaviour of individuals as well asgroups of soldiers, and, of utmost importance, morale.

This detailed examination of the way in which the Roman army operated during a war and how it fought a battle breaks away from existing studies, which mostly concentrate on the army in peacetime, and attempts to understand the army as an ..."

Caesar

The story of one of the most brilliant, flamboyant and historically important men who ever lived. 'A superb achievement' LITERARY REVIEW 'Combines scholarship with storytelling to bring the ancient world to life: in his masterly new CAESAR he shows us the greatest Roman as man, statesman, soldier and lover' Simon Sebag Montefiore 'Magnificent' DAILY TELEGRAPH From the very beginning, Caesar's story makes dazzling reading. In his late teens he narrowly avoided execution for opposing the military dictator Sulla. He was decorated for valour in battle, captured and held to ransom by pirates, and almost bankrupted himself by staging games for the masses. As a politician, he quickly gained a reputation as a dangerously ambitious maverick. By his early 30s he had risen to the position of Consul, and was already beginning to dominate the Senate. His affairs with noblewomen were both frequent and scandalous. His greatest skill, outside the bedroom, was as a military commander. In a string of spectacular victories he conquered all of Gaul, invaded Germany, and twice landed in Britain - an achievement which in 55BC was greeted with a public euphoria comparable to that generated by the moon landing in 1969. In just thirty years he had risen from a position of virtual obscurity to become one of the richest men in the world, with the power single-handedly to overthrow the Republic. By his death he was effectively emperor of most of the known world.

The story of one of the most brilliant, flamboyant and historically important men who ever lived."

Run Them Ashore

It's autumn 1810, Napoleon's legions have overrun Spain, and it looks as if Britain is losing the war. Backed by the Royal Navy, the British and their Spanish allies are clinging on to a toe-hold at Cadiz. As the French press ever closer, Lieutenant Williams of His Majesty's 106th Foot joins the Spanish partisans fighting behind enemy lines. Embroiled in the merciless guerrilla war, he soon realises that the greatest dangers come from his own side. A traitor is at work, and Williams must try to reach the British lines and warn them before a surprise raid on the French turns into a disaster.

It's autumn 1810, Napoleon's legions have overrun Spain, and it looks as if Britain is losing the war."

The Fall Of The West

A sweeping narrative of the decline and fall of the Roman Empire. The Fall of the Roman Empire has been a best-selling subject since the 18th century. Since then, over 200 very diverse reasons have been advocated for the collapse of the western half of the Roman Empire. Until very recently, the academic view embarrassedly downplayed the violence and destruction, in an attempt to provide a more urbane account of late antiquity: barbarian invasions were mistakenly described as the movement of peoples. It was all painfully tame and civilised. But now Adrian Goldsworthy comes forward with his trademark combination of clear narrative, common sense, and a thorough mastery of the sources. In telling the story from start to finish, he rescues the era from the diffident and mealy-mouthed: this is a red-blooded account of aggressive barbarian attacks, palace coups, scheming courtiers and corrupt emperors who set the bar for excess. It is 'old fashioned history' in the best sense: an accessible narrative with colourful characters whose story reveals the true reasons for the fall of Rome.

In telling the story from start to finish, he rescues the era from the diffident and mealy-mouthed: this is a red-blooded account of aggressive barbarian attacks, palace coups, scheming courtiers and corrupt emperors who set the bar for ..."

Augustus

'Masterly' - Robert Harris, author of Imperium 'Essential reading for anyone interested in Ancient Rome' Independent ***** Caesar Augustus schemed and fought his way to absolute power. He became Rome's first emperor and ruled for forty-four years before dying peacefully in his bed. The system he created would endure for centuries. Yet, despite his exceptional success, he is a difficult man to pin down, and far less well-known than his great-uncle, Julius Caesar. His story is not always edifying: he murdered his opponents, exiled his daughter when she failed to conform and freely made and broke alliances as he climbed ever higher. However, the peace and stability he fostered were real, and under his rule the empire prospered. Adrian Goldsworthy examines the ancient sources to understand the man and his times.

'Masterly' - Robert Harris, author of Imperium 'Essential reading for anyone interested in Ancient Rome' Independent ***** Caesar Augustus schemed and fought his way to absolute power."

Pax Romana

The Pax Romana is famous for having provided a remarkable period of peace and stability, rarely seen before or since. Yet the Romans were first and foremost conquerors, imperialists who took by force a vast empire stretching from the Euphrates in the east to the Atlantic coast in the west. Their peace meant Roman victory and was brought about by strength and dominance rather than co-existence with neighbours. The Romans were aggressive and ruthless, and during the creation of their empire millions died or were enslaved. But the Pax Romana was real, not merely the boast of emperors, and some of the regions in the Empire have never again lived for so many generations free from major wars. So what exactly was the Pax Romana and what did it mean for the people who found themselves brought under Roman rule? Acclaimed historian Adrian Goldsworthy tells the story of the creation of the Empire, revealing how and why the Romans came to control so much of the world and asking whether the favourable image of the Roman peace is a true one. He chronicles the many rebellions by the conquered, and describes why these broke out and why most failed. At the same time, he explains that hostility was only one reaction to the arrival of Rome, and from the start there was alliance, collaboration and even enthusiasm for joining the invaders, all of which increased as resistance movements faded away. A ground-breaking and comprehensive history of the Roman Peace, Pax Romana takes the reader on a journey from the bloody conquests of an aggressive Republic through the age of Caesar and Augustus to the golden age of peace and prosperity under diligent emperors like Marcus Aurelius, offering a balanced and nuanced reappraisal of life in the Roman Empire.

Acclaimed historian Adrian Goldsworthy tells the story of the creation of the Empire, revealing how and why the Romans came to control so much of the world and asking whether the favourable image of the Roman peace is a true one."

Cannae

From an award-winning historian of ancient Rome, the definitive history of Rome's most devastating defeat August 2, 216 BC was one of history's bloodiest single days of fighting. On a narrow plain near the Southern Italian town of Cannae, despite outnumbering their opponents almost two to one, a massive Roman army was crushed by the heterogeneous forces of Hannibal, the Carthaginian general who had spectacularly crossed the Alps into Italy two years earlier. The scale of the losses at Cannae -- 50,000 Roman men killed -- was unrivaled until the industrialized slaughter of the First World War. Although the Romans eventually recovered and Carthage lost the war, the Battle of Cannae became Romans' point of reference for all later military catastrophes. Ever since, military commanders confronting a superior force have attempted, and usually failed, to reproduce Hannibal's tactics and their overwhelming success. In Cannae, the celebrated historian Adrian Goldsworthy offers a concise and enthralling history of one of the most famous battles ever waged, setting Cannae within the larger contexts of the Second Punic War and the nature of warfare in the third century BC. It is a gripping read for historians, strategists, and anyone curious about warfare in antiquity and Rome's rise to power.

In Cannae, the celebrated historian Adrian Goldsworthy offers a concise and enthralling history of one of the most famous battles ever waged, setting Cannae within the larger contexts of the Second Punic War and the nature of warfare in the ..."

Antony and Cleopatra

The epic story of one of the most famous love affairs in history, by the bestselling author of Caesar. ***** The monumental love affair between Antony and Cleopatra has been depicted in countless novels, plays and films. As one of the three men in control of the Roman Empire, Antony was perhaps the most powerful man of his day. And Cleopatra, who had already been Julius Caesar's lover, was the beautiful queen of Egypt, Rome's most important province. The clash of cultures, the power politics, and the personal passion have proven irresistible to storytellers. But in the course of this storytelling dozens of myths have grown up. The popular image of Cleopatra in ancient Egyptian costume is a fallacy; she was actually Greek. Despite her local dominance in Egypt, her real power came from her ability to forge strong personal allegiances with the most important men in Rome. Likewise, Mark Antony was not the bluff soldier of legend, brought low by his love for an exotic woman - he was first and foremost a politician, and never allowed Cleopatra to dictate policy to him. In this history, based exclusively on ancient sources and archaeological evidence, Adrian Goldsworthy gives us the facts behind this famous couple and dispels many myths. 'Excellent' Tom Holland 'Refreshingly frank' Mary Beard

The epic story of one of the most famous love affairs in history, by the bestselling author of Caesar. ***** The monumental love affair between Antony and Cleopatra has been depicted in countless novels, plays and films."

All in Scarlet Uniform

The fourth novel in a brilliant Napoleonic series from acclaimed historian Adrian Goldsworthy. The year is 1809, and the recruiting sergeants are hard at work, as the British army gathers strength for the next phase of the campaign against Bonaparte on the Spanish Peninsula. Captain Billy Pringle of the 106th Foot, however, has a somewhat more urgent reason to leave the country: having become embroiled in an ill-advised duel with a lieutenant in the 14th Light Dragoons, a posting to Spain would avoid any awkwardness for the regiment. Along with his friend Lieutenant Williams - whose sister Kitty was the cause of the duel - and the doughty veteran Sergeant Dobson, Pringle takes on the task of training Spanish troops to stand alongside their British allies. But what seems at first like easy duty soon turns into a desperate fight for survival as they find themselves besieged in the strategic fortress of Cuidad Rodrigo. For Bonaparte, taking the fortress will be the first step towards pushing the British back to the sea, and the task is entrusted to one of his most daring and successful generals, Marshal Ney. And Ney in his turn has found the perfect officer to lead the assault, a man not only desperate for advancement but also thirsting for revenge - a man whom Williams knows only too well.

The fourth novel in a brilliant Napoleonic series from acclaimed historian Adrian Goldsworthy."

Send Me Safely Back Again

The third novel in the series sees new challenges for the men of the 106th Foot, as the British army attempts to recover from the disaster of Corunna and establish a foothold in the Peninsula. Featuring the battles of Medellin and Talavera, the 106th will have their mettle severely tested on the battlefield. But if Napoleon is to be ejected from Spain, war must also be waged in more covert ways. For Hanley, the former artist who is a more natural observer than fighter, the opportunity to become an 'exploring officer' leads him into even more dangerous territory, the murky world of politics and partisans. And while Ensign Williams seeks to uncover the identity of the mysterious 'Heroine of Saragossa', a conspiracy of revenge within the regiment itself threatens to destroy him before he's even faced a shot from the French.

The third novel in the series sees new challenges for the men of the 106th Foot, as the British army attempts to recover from the disaster of Corunna and establish a foothold in the Peninsula."

Beat the Drums Slowly

The second novel in a brilliant new Napoleonic series from acclaimed historian Adrian Goldsworthy. Second in the series begun by TRUE SOLDIER GENTLEMEN, the story takes our heroes through the winter snows as Sir John Moore is forced to retreat to Corunna. Faced with appalling weather, and pursued by an overwhelming French army led by Napoleon himself, the very survival of Britain's army is at stake. But while the 106th Foot fights a desperate rearguard action, for the newly promoted Hamish Williams, the retreat turns into an unexpectedly personal drama. Separated from the rest of the army in the initial chaos, he chances upon another fugitive, Jane MacAndrews, the daughter of his commanding officer, and the woman he is desperately and hopelessly in love with. As the pair battle the elements and the pursuing French, picking up a rag-tag band of fellow stragglers along the way - as well as an abandoned newborn - the strict boundaries of their social relationship are tested to the limit, with surprising results. But Williams soon finds he must do more than simply evade capture and deliver Jane safe and sound to her father. A specially tasked unit of French cavalry is threatening to turn the retreat into a massacre, and Williams and his little band are the only thing standing between them and their goal.

The second novel in a brilliant new Napoleonic series from acclaimed historian Adrian Goldsworthy."

True Soldier Gentlemen

'[A] Jane Austen-meets-Bernard Cornwell novel' Daily Mail Raw recruits march under the summer sun. But on distant shores a terrible event is about to sing its siren's song to the true soldier gentlemen of Britain. For it is 1808, and the Peninsular War is about to erupt . . . Meet the men of the 106th Foot, a new regiment staffed by young gentlemen who know nothing of war. William Hanley is in the army because he has no other livelihood. Hamish Williams, a man without money or influence, is hoping war will make his name. Their friend Billy Pringle believes the rigours of combat will keep him from the drinking and womanising that are his undoing. And for George Wickham, battle is simply another means of social climbing. When the band of four are plunged into a savage war against the veteran armies of Napoleon, they find their illusions shattered and their lives changed for ever as they face the brutality of the battlefield . . . Combining the vivid detail of a master historian with the engaging characters and pulsating action of a natural storyteller, True Soldier Gentlemen is perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell, Patrick O'Brian, C.S. Forester, Allan Mallinson and Simon Scarrow. ********************* 'It's so well written, flows so well, that the detail does not drag you down . . . a fantastic read, well written, well laid out and absorbing from start to finish' Goodreads reviewer 'Having now read quite a few novels set during the Napoleonic Wars, I was extremely impressed by Adrian Goldsworthy's knowledge of the period and his ability to relate this to the reader without it reading like a history text' Goodreads reviewer

Combining the vivid detail of a master historian with the engaging characters and pulsating action of a natural storyteller, True Soldier Gentlemen is perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell, Patrick O'Brian, C.S. Forester, Allan Mallinson and ..."

The Fort

AD 105: Dacia. Centurion Flavius Ferox commands an isolated fort beyond the Danube. First in a new adventure trilogy set on the frontier of the Roman Empire. AD 105: DACIA The Dacian kingdom and Rome are at peace, but no one thinks that it will last. Sent to command an isolated fort beyond the Danube, centurion Flavius Ferox can sense that war is coming, but also knows that enemies may be closer to home. Many of the Brigantes under his command are former rebels and convicts, as likely to kill him as obey an order. And then there is Hadrian, the emperor's cousin, and a man with plans of his own. "An instant classic of the genre." --Harry Sidebottom An authentic, enjoyable read." --TheTimes

AD 105: Dacia. Centurion Flavius Ferox commands an isolated fort beyond the Danube. First in a new adventure trilogy set on the frontier of the Roman Empire."

The Fall of Carthage

The struggle between Rome and Carthage in the Punic Wars was arguably the greatest and most desperate conflict of antiquity. The forces involved and the casualties suffered by both sides were far greater than in any wars fought before the modern era, while the eventual outcome had far-reaching consequences for the history of the Western World, namely the ascendancy of Rome. An epic of war and battle, this is also the story of famous generals and leaders: Hannibal, Fabius Maximus, Scipio Africanus, and his grandson Scipio Aemilianus, who would finally bring down the walls of Carthage.

An epic of war and battle, this is also the story of famous generals and leaders: Hannibal, Fabius Maximus, Scipio Africanus, and his grandson Scipio Aemilianus, who would finally bring down the walls of Carthage."

Caesar's Civil War

Fully illustrated with colour maps and images, this is an accessible introduction to Julius Caesar's Civil War. Julius Caesar and Pompey the Great were two of the greatest generals Rome had ever produced. Together they had brought vast stretches of territory under Roman dominion. In 49 BC they turned against each other and plunged Rome into civil war. In this book, Adrian Goldsworthy relates the gripping story of this desperate power struggle. Drawing on original accounts of the war, he examines how legion was pitched against legion in a vicious battle for political domination of the vast Roman world. The armies were evenly matched, but in the end, Caesar's genius as a commander and his great good luck brought him victory in 45 BC. Updated and revised for the new edition, with full-colour maps and 40 new images, this is a detailed introduction to one of the last conflicts in the Roman Republic before the establishment of the Roman Empire.

Fully illustrated with colour maps and images, this is an accessible introduction to Julius Caesar's Civil War."

The Roman Army

This volume spans over a thousand years as it offers a picture of one of the world's most noted fighting forces, paying special attention to the life of the common soldier. --from publisher description.

 Roman Military Records on Papyrus. Cleveland, OH: Case Western Reserve University for the American Philological Society. Gabba, Emilio. 1976. Republican Rome, the Army and the Allies. Oxford: Blackwell. Goldsworthy , Adrian K. 1996."

The Punic Wars

The struggle between Rome and Carthage in the Punic Wars was arguably the greatest and most desperate conflict of Antiquity. The forces involved and the casualties suffered by both sides were far greater than in any wars fought before the modern era, while the eventual outcome had far reaching consequences for the history of the Western World, namely the ascendancy of Rome. An epic of war and battle, this is also the story of famous generals and leaders: Hannibal, Fabius Maximus, Scipio Africanus, and his grandson Scipio Aemilianus who would finally bring down the walls of Carthage.

An epic of war and battle, this is also the story of famous generals and leaders: Hannibal, Fabius Maximus, Scipio Africanus, and his grandson Scipio Aemilianus who would finally bring down the walls of Carthage."

History of The Roman Legions

An extraordinary eBook. Over 800 pages, 42 full-color illustrations, out of the text, of Tancredi Scarpelli, Italian illustrator, 30 full-color illustrations, out of the text, of great painters, various illustrations black and white in the text. All the texts of this eBook are free available on the web. Why buy it? Because the book is a resource that provide to a considerable added-value: it coordinates, in logical way, to gather texts scattered on the web the images in full-color and in black and white list of films set in ancient Rome the Most Important Movies All the arguments of the eBook: The History of all roman legions: Organization, Equipment, Body armour, Tactics, Levy and conditions of service, Campaign record, Marching-order and camps, Social impact of military service. Political history of the Roman military, Roman kingdom, Roman Republic from late Republic to mid-Roman Empire, Middle Roman Empire, Late Roman Empire Other: Imperial cavalry, Privileges, Relations, Oligarchical rule, Composition of legions, Roman conquest of Italy, Pattern of Roman expansion, Benefits of Roman hegemony, Military organisation of the Roman alliance, Historical cohesion of the Roman alliance, Samnite Wars, Pyrrhic War, 2nd Punic War, Social War, Integration of socii, Causes of socii revolt, Outbreak of revolt, Roman unification of Italy, Expansion of the Roman Republic, Imperial times, Conquest of the Iberian peninsula (219–18 BC), Macedon, the Greek poleis, and Illyria (215–148 BC), Jugurthine War (112–105 BC), Resurgence of the Celtic threat (121 BC), New Germanic threat (113–101 BC), Conflicts with Mithridates (89–63 BC), Campaign against the Cilician pirates (67 BC), Caesar's early campaigns (59–50 BC), Triumvirates, Caesarian ascension, and revolt (53–30 BC). Empire: Imperial expansion (40 BC – 117 AD), Year of the Four Emperors (69 AD), Jewish revolts (66–135 AD), Struggle with Parthia (114–217 AD), Usurpers (193–394 AD), Struggle with the Sassanid Empire (230–363 AD), Collapse of the Western Empire (402–476 AD), Social War, Civil Wars. Documents: The Battle of The Metaurus, B.: 207, The War with Porsena, The Conquest of Gaul, The Cimbri and Teutones – Political Quarrels, The Battle of Chalons, A.D. 451, The First Punic War, The Praetorian Influence, The Great Enemies of Rome: Pyrrhus, Relation of the Augustan Age to other Literary Epochs, Roman Religion. Bibliography. List of films set in ancient Rome, The Most Important Movies, Source of the Texts.

Warfare and the Military The Cambridge Companion to the Age of Constantine. ... Roman Warfare. Goldsworthy, Adrian (2000). Roman Warfare. Goldsworthy, Adrian (2003). Complete Roman Army . Goldsworthy, Adrian (2003). Complete Roman Army."

Roman Siege Warfare

Key reading for the discerning history buff or academic specialist

The Late Roman World and its historian: interpreting Ammianus Marcellinus. ... Washington, D.C.: Department of the army. eisenhut, Werner. 1973. ... The Roman Army at War 100 BC-Ad 200. oxford: Clarendon Press. goldsworthy , adrian ."

Hannibal's Last Battle

At Zama in what is now Tunisia in 202 BC the armies of two empires clashed. The Romans under Scipio Africanus won a bloody, decisive victory over Hannibal's Carthaginians. Scipio's victory signalled a shift in the balance of power in the ancient world. Brian Todd Carey's compelling reconstruction of the battle, and of the gruelling war that led up to it, gives a fascinating insight into the Carthaginian and Roman methods of waging war. And it offers a critical assessment of the contrasting qualities and leadership styles of Hannibal and Scipio, the two most celebrated commanders of their age.

Robert L. O'Connell, 'The Roman Killing Machine', Military History Quarterly, Vol. 1, Num. 1, (1988), p. 38. Connolly, 'The Early Roman Army ', p. 138. Parker, The Roman Legions , 11. Adrian Goldsworthy , The Complete Roman Army , (London, ..."

The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary

We are far removed from the time and culture of the biblical world, and this distance easily leads to misunderstanding and misinterpretation. Our understanding and appreciation for God's Word increase exponentially when we know about the context in which the biblical books were written. So while many Bible commentaries explain the theological meaning of the text, The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary provides fascinating cultural and historical insights into God's Word. Richly illustrated with full-color photos throughout, this one-volume background commentary includes articles by leading Old and New Testament scholars on subjects such as - countries, cities, and cultures of the Holy Land and the Greco-Roman world - warfare and execution - religious groups and customs - fashion, athletics, feasts, and celebrations - honor, shame, and hospitality - and much more This colorful, informative volume is an essential companion for pastors, teachers, and laypeople who want to enhance their personal Bible study and help others do the same.

Cicero once said, “The very word 'cross' should be far removed, not only from the Roman citizen, but from his thoughts, ... Adrian Goldsworthy , The Complete Roman Army (London: Thames & Hudson, 2003), 27; Pat Southern, The Roman Army : A ..."

Rome In The Teutoburg Forest

This paper examines the battle of Teutoburg (9 A.D.), its consequences on the Roman world, and the role cultural misunderstanding played on the tactical, operational, and strategic levels. The Roman commander’s cultural misunderstanding of his enemy caused mistakes at the operational and tactical levels, while the Roman Emperor’s cultural misunderstanding brought about mistakes at the strategic level and created poor policy decisions following the battle, which affected Rome like no other battle in its history. Chapter 2 examines the consequences of other Roman loses (with much higher casualties) to show how none of them carried the same impact as the Teutoburg loss. They were but temporary “setbacks”, while Teutoburg was Rome’s first military “defeat” in its history. The Roman direction of conquest into Germania and the image of the pre-Teutoburg Germanic barbarian (an image which changes greatly into an elevated status following the massacre) are also examined. Chapter 3 examines the commanders of both sides and the battle itself. Chapter 4 looks at the significance of this loss. This battle caused Rome to adopt its first permanent defensive boundary and set the first limit of the Roman Empire.

This paper examines the battle of Teutoburg (9 A.D.), its consequences on the Roman world, and the role cultural misunderstanding played on the tactical, operational, and strategic levels."

How Rome Fell

Examines the decline of the Roman Empire, from the second to the sixth century, and how internal conflicts and the personal ambitions of its rulers brought about its eventual downfall.

By the end of the fifth century, Roman rule had vanished in western Europe and much of northern Africa. Applying the scholarship, perspective, and narrative skill that defined his monumental "Caesar," Goldworthy explores how Rome fell."

In Search of the Romans (Second Edition)

In Search of the Romans is a lively and informative introduction to ancient Rome. Making extensive use of ancient sources and copiously illustrated with photographs, drawings, maps and plans, now for the first time in colour, its opening two chapters guide the reader through the events of Roman history, from the foundation of the city to the fall of the empire. Subsequent chapters introduce the most important aspects of the Roman world: the army and the provinces, religion, society, and entertainment; the final two chapters focus on Pompeii and Herculaneum, the two cities destroyed by Vesuvius. New to this edition are sections on the Augustan principate, on the Roman army, on life in the provinces and on engineering innovations, while the existing text is revised throughout. The narrative includes descriptions of many individuals from the Roman world, drawn from a variety of social settings. Activity boxes and further reading lists throughout each chapter aid students' understanding of the subject. Review questions challenge students to read further and reflect on some of the most important social, political and cultural issues of ancient Rome, as well as to compare them with those of their own society. The new edition is supported by a website that includes images, maps and timelines, further reading and related links.

Alston, Richard, Rome's Revolution (New York: Oxford University Press, 2015). Beard, Mary, SPQR (London: Profile, ... Syme , Ronald , The Roman Revolution (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2002). Scullard, Howard, From the Gracchi to Nero ..."

The Real Gladiator

“Are you not entertained?” shouts Russell Crowe, playing the part of General Maximus Decimus Meridius in the Oscar winning 2000 film Gladiator. The crowd, having witnessed Maximus defeating several gladiators, cheer in response. Film goers too were indeed entertained with the film grossing nearly half a billion dollars. This book covers the historical events that film was based on. From the Germanic wars on the northern frontier to the gladiatorial arena in Rome. From the philosopher emperor, Marcus Aurelius to the palace intrigues during the reign of his son. We will discover how Commodus really died and which of the characters actually fought in the arena. Readers will meet two generals, Pompeianus and Maximianus, who most resemble our hero General Maximus. Also Lucilla, the sister of Commodus, who in reality married her General, but detested him. The book also focuses on warfare, weapons and contemporary battles. It will compare the battle and fight scenes in the film with reality from contemporary sources and modern tests and reenactments. The reader will discover that fact is not only stranger than fiction, it is often more entertaining. The real history was certainly as much, if not more, treacherous, bloodthirsty, murderous and dramatic than anything the film industry has created. Anyone who answered “yes!” to the question posed by Russell Crowe’s character in the film, will indeed be entertained by this book.

Beard, Mary, SPQR A History of Ancient Rome, (Profile Books, London, 2016) Birley, Anthony, The Roman Government of Britain, (Oxford University Press, ... Goldsworthy , Adrian , The Complete Roman Army , (Thames and Hudson, London, 2003)."

Legion versus Phalanx

From the time of Ancient Sumeria, the heavy infantry phalanx dominated the battlefield. Armed with spears or pikes, standing shoulder to shoulder with shields interlocking, the men of the phalanx presented an impenetrable wall of wood and metal to the enemy. Until, that is, the Roman legion emerged to challenge them as masters of infantry battle. Covering the period in which the legion and phalanx clashed (280–168 BC), Myke Cole delves into their tactics, arms and equipment, organization and deployment. Drawing on original primary sources to examine six battles in which the legion fought the phalanx – Heraclea (280 BC), Asculum (279 BC), Beneventum (275 BC), Cynoscephalae (197 BC), Magnesia (190 BC), and Pydna (168 BC) – he shows how and why the Roman legion, with its flexible organization, versatile tactics and iron discipline, came to eclipse the hitherto untouchable Hellenistic phalanx and dominate the ancient battlefield.

Engels, Donald W., Alexander the Great and the Logistics of the Macedonian Army , University of California Press, Oakland (1978). Everitt, Anthony, The Rise of Rome , Random House, New York (2013). Goldsworthy , Adrian , In the Name of Rome ..."

The Roman Empire: A Historical Encyclopedia [2 volumes]

Covering material from the time of Julius Caesar to the sack of Rome, this topically arranged reference volume provides substantive entries on people, cities, government, institutions, military developments, material culture, and other topics related to the Roman Empire. • Covers all aspects of Imperial Rome, from politics to social life • Provides a selection of primary source documents • Organizes reference entries in topical categories and provides cross-references • Cites works for further reading and closes with a bibliography of the most important print and electronic resources

 Goldsworthy , Adrian Keith. 1998. The Roman Army at War: 100 BC–AD 200. Oxford, UK: Clarendon. Goldsworthy , Adrian Keith. 2003. The Complete Roman Army . London: Thames and Hudson. Harries, Jill. 2012. Imperial Rome AD 284 to 363: The New ..."

Politics and military life of Imperial Rome

The army of Rome was always closely linked to its political system, a person's social position affected his political and military roles.Originally, Rome was bound by its power and glory to a magnificent military system, in terms of perfection and efficiency far superior to anything that any potential adversary could oppose.

Yale university press Goldsworthy , Adrian Keith. The Roman Army at War 100BC-AD200. - Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1996. - ISBN 0-19-815057-1. Goldsworthy , Adrian Keith. The Complete Roman Army . - London: Thames and Hudson, Ltd., ..."

Life in ancient Rome

The city of Rome was the largest megalopolis of the time, with a population that may well have exceeded one million people, with a high level estimate of 3.6 million. A substantial proportion of the population lived in countless urban centers, with a population of at least 10,000 and in several military settlements, a very high rate of urbanization according to pre-industrial standards. Most of the housing blocks were crowded and dangerous, residents lived in constant fear of fire.

Yale university press Goldsworthy , Adrian Keith. The Roman Army at War 100BC-AD200. - Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1996. - ISBN 0-19-815057-1. Goldsworthy , Adrian Keith. The Complete Roman Army . - London: Thames and Hudson, Ltd., ..."

Juvenal’s Global Awareness

In Juvenal’s Global Awareness Osman Umurhan applies theories of globalization to an investigation of Juvenal’s articulation and understanding of empire, imperialism and identity. Umurhan explains how the increased interconnectivity between different localities, ethnic and political, shapes Juvenal’s view of Rome as in constant flux and motion. Theoretical and sociological notions of deterritorialization, time-space compression and the rhizome inform the satirist’s language of mobility and his construction of space and place within second century Rome and its empire. The circulation of people, goods and ideas generated by processes of globalization facilitates Juvenal’s negotiation of threats and changes to Roman institutions that include a wide array of topics, from representatios of the army and food to discussions of cannibalism and language. Umurhan’s analysis stresses that Juvenalian satire itself is a rhizome in both function and form. This study is designed for audiences interested in Juvenal, empire and globalization under Rome.

Coulston, J. C. N. (2000) “Armed and Belted Men: The Soldiery in Imperial Rome. ... Roman Imperial Power: Proceedings of the Third Workshop of the International Network Impact of Empire ( Roman Empire , c. ... Goldsworthy , Adrian Keith."