Books to read to learn about Ancient Rome
- Louise
- Jan 22, 2022
- 2 min read
Want to learn more about Ancient Rome but don't know where to start? Well here are 6 book recommendations for you to dive into...
These are all perfect for absolute beginners on Ancient Rome or people with an interest already looking for a new read.
This post does use affiliate links, meaning if you purchase any of the books I've recommended through my links I make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The Short and Sweet Version:
(in no particular order)
SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome by Mary Beard
The Roman Republic (A Very Short Introduction) by David M. Gwynn
24 Hours in Ancient Rome by Philip Matyszak
Rubicon: The Triumph and Tragedy of the Roman Republic by Tom Holland
Ancient Rome on Five Denarii a Day by Philip Matyszak
The Roman Empire (A Very Short Introduction) by Christopher Kelly
The Longer Version:
How to use this list?
Read all the recommendations and then choose which book you think would be best for you as a first read.
Everyone is different and certain books will appeal more to each individual reader's tastes.
1: SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome by Mary Beard
First Published: 2015
Pages: 608
Summary:
1000 years of Roman history are covered in Mary Beard's SPQR. Starting from its formation of tiny Roman village in central Italy all the way to empire and ending in in 212 BCE with Caracalla's decree extending citizenship to all free men living within the Empire.
Why I recommend it?
Covers 1000 years of Roman history.
Starts at the very beginning of Roman history, unlike some books which focus on the later years of Ancient Rome.
The writing is accessible and easy to understand.
Evidence is given for each point and clearly explained.
The book does not just focus on one group of people but everyone from slaves to emperors to women.
by David M. Gwynn
First Published: 2006
Pages: 153
Summary:
This book provides an short introduction to the Roman Republic, doing so in under 200 pages.
Why I recommend it?
It is a great starting place as it is a short introduction.
Includes a timeline and further reading section.
Clearly written information, making it a very accessible read.
A quick read to help you get hooked on learning more about Ancient Rome.
3: 24 Hours in Ancient Rome: A Day in the Life of the People Who Lived There by Philip Matyszak
First Published: 2017
Pages: 272
Summary:
Put yourself into the sandals of an Ancient Roman and learn about what it would have been like to live there yourself. A chapter is given for every hour of the day starting from midnight and covers a wide range of people's lives set in Hadrian's Rome on a late Summer day.
Why I recommend it?
A very entertaining read, that will keep you interested.
Factual information given to you through fictional characters who would have existed.
A quick read being a fast-paced writing style and not too many pages.
4: Rubicon: The Triumph and Tragedy of the Roman Republic by Tom Holland
First Published: 2003
Pages: 378
Summary:
Why I recommend it?
by Philip Matyszak
First Published: 2007
Pages: 143
Summary:
Why I recommend it?
by Christopher Kelly
First Published: 2006
Pages: 153
Summary:
Why I recommend it?
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