Immense Majesty: A History of Rome and the Roman Empire

Integrates social, economic, cultural and religious aspects of Roman life with the rise and fall of the Republic. The author explores the achievements and decay of the imperial system to the time of Justinian and provides information about Roman women.

"Once an obscure people in ancient Italy, the Romans embarked on an imperial career that changed the course of world history. In the Mediterranean basin and Western Europe, they established an international order that lasted for centures. The name "Roman" conjures up images of empire and power, war and brutality, but also the rule of law and civic rights, a republic that flourished before it foundered, and an atempt at responsible despotism. The heritage of Rome is still felt in law, architecture, and politics.... While posterity has aped them for good and ill, the Romans warrant attention on their own merits for what they were and what they did."