Hadrian: The Restless Emperor (Roman Imperial Biographies) Book + PRICE WATCH * Amazon pricing is not included in price watch

Hadrian: The Restless Emperor (Roman Imperial Biographies) Book

Although his decision to abandon the expansionist policies of his predecessors seemed to forecast the Roman Empire's decline, this evenhanded biography demonstrates that Hadrian (A.D. 76-138) was also an intelligent, energetic ruler. With equal judiciousness ancient historian Anthony R. Birley scrutinizes Hadrian's private life--including an unhappy marriage and a devoted homosexual attachment--and his public works, from Britain's monumental wall to the disastrous attempt to Hellenize his Jewish subjects. Birley makes good use of primary sources and academic monographs to create a scholarly yet accessible narrative.Read More

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  • Product Description

    In Hadrian, Anthony R. Birley brilliantly uses new evidence to chronicle the fascinating life of a man who, while broken and hated at his death, nevertheless left an indelible stamp on the Roman Empire.

    Birley shows how Hadrian brazenly abandoned his predecessor Trajan's eastern conquests, constructed new demarcation lines in Germany, North Africa, and most famously Hadrian's Wall in Britain, to limit the expansion of the Empire. Hadrian portrayed himself as a second Augustus, and, unlike most Roman emperors, acted rather than reacted. He promoted the "Greek Renaissance" extravagantly, but his attempt to Hellenize the Jews had disastrous consequences. Birley also explores Hadrian's dramatic personal life, including his tragic love affair with the young Antinous, whose death in the Nile caused speculation of suicide and even sacrifice.

  • 041516544X
  • 9780415165440
  • Anthony R Birley, Anthony R. Birley
  • 25 September 1997
  • Routledge
  • Hardcover (Book)
  • 424
  • 1
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