Augustus: The Life of Rome’s First Emperor by Anthony Everitt

Augustus: The Life of Rome’s First Emperor by Anthony Everitt is a thoroughly researched biography of the life and legacy of Emperor Augustus, the founder of the Roman Empire. From his early life as a politician in the Roman Republic to his ascension to ‘princeps’, Augustus completely reorganized the Roman system and the surrounding territories, ultimately creating some of history’s most powerful empires.

Anthony Everitt's biography outlines the extensive chronology of Augustus’ life: everything from the part he played in the civil wars leading up to his assumed position of power as emperor, to his successes as an administrator and military leader, and his more lasting achievements as an emperor. While Augustus is often remembered for his contribution to Roman politics and governance, Everitt strives to give an in-depth account of the cultural, social, and military aspects of Augustus’ life too, elaborating on his importance to Roman culture, architecture, literature, and art.

The account of Augustus' life is immensely detailed, providing us with a comprehensive view of the life of Rome's first emperor. Everitt paints a vivid picture of the great ambition and political change which Augustus inspired, describing his own rise to power and position of authority with rigorous objectivity in skilled detail.

Included in the biography are the extraordinary accomplishments of Augustus in his term as emperor. He created the fairest possible system of government; his Laws of Augustus, which stood for centuries. It was via his Laws that he was able to maintain his position of power, even after his death. He also directed much of the cultural activity of Rome: literature, philosophy, architecture, and sculpture. His mausoleum, for instance, was a lasting symbol of Augustus’ power and influence, which made its mark on Roman history forever.

The discussion of Augustus’ life isn’t limited to his accomplishments, however. Everitt also details the dramatic private life of the emperor, including his various marriages, his many mistresses, and the various interpersonal relationships that would prove to be key to his success.

Besides being a thorough, biographical exploration of Rome’s first emperor, Augustus: The Life of Rome’s First Emperor by Anthony Everitt also serves to describe the history of Roman culture and events in great detail. This makes it an invaluable read for anyone interested in the history of the Roman Empire and its incredible leader, Emperor Augustus. While there are countless biographies of Augustus, this one stands out due to its meticulous attention to detail and its remarkable accuracy.

Augustus: The Life of Rome’s First Emperor by Anthony Everitt provides a detailed account of Rome’s first emperor, from his early ascension to power through his lasting legacy. From vivid details about Augustus’ private romances to the Laws of Augustus and the influence he had on Roman culture and art, Everitt’s biography captures the life and reign of Rome’s first emperor with perfect clarity and accuracy. It is an essential read for anyone interested in Roman history or in the life and legacy of Emperor Augustus.