Amazon.com Product Description (ISBN 0760700915, Hardcover)

From the Publisher Michael Grant has established himself as on e of the leading classical historians of our time. Here, from the author of such outstanding works as History of Rome and From Alexander to Cleopatra, are the biographies of ninety-two Roman emperors to A.D. 476. The Roman emperors were the men who wielded power over the vast empire stretching from Britain to the Sahara and from the Atlantic to the Euphrates -- one of the greatest multiracial states the world has ever known. Almost two thousand years later, it is no easy task to reconstruct the truth about the careers and characters of these controversial, often extraordinary individuals. Michael Grant brings together ancient writings, coins, medallions, inscriptions, and archaeology to help fill many of the tantalizing gaps in our knowledge. He portrays great men such as Augustus, the first Roman princeps, or emperor, and one of the most talented, energetic, and skillful administrators the world has ever known; Claudius, a suspicious and fearful man who ruled with a curious mixture of progressive broadmindedness and antiquarian pedantry; and Aurelian, Diocletian, Constantine, and other emperors who decisively directed the course of events in their times. The result is a magnificent collection of biographical cameos, illustrated throughout with ancient contemporary portraits. Remarkable for its breadth of coverage and eloquent, readable style, The Roman Emperors will become a standard work of reference for students and a treasured addition to the collections of all enthusiastic readers of history.