From the Gracchi to Nero: A History of Rome from 133 BC to AD 68 (Paperback)

by H. H. Scullard (Author) "Carthage and Corinth, two great cities of the ancient world, crashed to their ruin amid smoke and flame in 146 B.C., destroyed and sacked by..." (more)
Key Phrases: Julius Caesar, Asia Minor, Cisalpine Gaul (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
Still the best introduction to Roman history. – Miriam Griffin, University of Oxford

The fundamental modern work of reference for teachers, sixth-formers and university students still ... the best and most reliable modern account of the period. – Tim Cornell, University of Manchester

The most balanced, succinct account of the two most turbulent and written-about centuries of Roman history – the single best introduction to that period for students. – G.H.R. Horsley, University of New England

Product Description
The standard textbook for the central period of Roman history. Covers the decline and fall of the Republic and the establishment of the Pax Romana under the early Principate.

Product Details

• Paperback: 528 pages
• Publisher: Routledge; 5 edition (August 17, 1982)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0415025273
• ISBN-13: 978-0415025270
• Product Dimensions: 7.6 x 5.1 x 1.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars See all reviews (11 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #449,322 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Standard, May 5, 2004

By	Wallace V. French III (Boston MA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Scullard is still the baseline for all academic books written involving this time period. Most of them are compared to Scullard. I have the 4th edition of this book, but with the exception of a few expanded end notes it is the same as the 5th edition. First published in 1959 it is still the standard text for early Roman history classes. It is pretty easy to follow, but like any textbook for this period it does not cover much of anything in depth. It covers the big events from the Gracchi to Nero. The Gracchi are covered pretty well here and that is why I bought this book. Books on the Gracchi brothers are hard to find and when you do they are quite expensive. He of course covers the Julius Caesar and Augustus eras in fair detail. Not much on Nero even though he is in the title. The best thing about this book is the extensive list of further reading and Scullard's notes. A good introductory book and despite its age it is still easy to read prose.

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars solid examination of a rapidly changing period, May 17, 2000

By	TammyJo Eckhart "TammyJo Eckhart" (Bloomington, Indiana United States) - See all my reviews (TOP 500 REVIEWER)

Scullard provides the advanced class with a good solid examination of one of the most confusing and violent periods of Roman history. Using his work, one can see how a Caesar or a Pompey or even an Augustus is not only an outstanding man but a product of his society and his time. A good lesson for those who think one man can make all the difference without considering the complexity of politics and human culture.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Scullard has given students an invaluable resource., September 5, 1998

By A Customer

From The Gracchi to Nero by H.H. Scullard is an excellent starting point for any student or enthusiast of Roman history. His explorations and explanations of the rise and fall of the military dynasts Pompey, Marius, Sulla, Caesar and Octavian are well written and fascinating. The book is extremely valuable for its detailed footnotes and thus provides the student with avenues for further analysis and research.