The Little Book of Roman Emperors

A readable and engaging look of the extraordinary characters who ruled the Roman Empire. We all know about Augustus, Caligula, Nero. Even Titus, who sacked Jerusalem, and Tiberius referred to in the Bible – 'Render unto Caesar, the things which be Caesar's.' But what about the philosopher Marcus Aurelius musing in his favourite villa on the Danube in Austria? Or his dissolute son, Commodus, fighting gladiators in the Colosseum? How about the wretched Valerian used as a mounting block for the King of Persia before being flayed alive? Or Thrax, the seven-foot giant? Or Elegalabus, the sun-worshipping transgender Emperor? He who took the poisoned chalice of the Imperial purple was feared and respected. 

They were no ordinary rulers. They were ambitious, cunning, ruthless and cruel. Fear was their watchword and raw power, through the dangerous Praetorian Guard or the legendary Legions, their enforcers. Few died peacefully in bed, some honourably in battle, most darkly murdered by rivals, often members of their own family. 

Full of fascinating insights, this insightful compendium takes us through the full and incredible list of characters who ruled the Roman Empire. From Augustus and the Julio-Claudian dynasty to Romulus Augustulus (the last western emperor) and beyond to Constantine XI (the true final emperor), discover both the key players and lesser-known figures behind one of the greatest empires ever known. Rome and her emperors were anything but 'little', but The Little Book of Roman Emperors packs them all in with a punch – essential reading for everyone caught often thinking about the Roman Empire.