Michael H. Crawford (1) (1939–)

This is not a narrative history of Republican Rome. It is not an introductory text. Readers approaching this book must bear this in mind. If they need a history of Rome from 390–30 BC then they need to look elsewhere. I think some of the confusion of other reviewers arises from this fact. The fact that it is part of the "Fontana History of the Ancient World" (really the Graeco-Roman World) gives it a higher profile and probably misleads some as to its nature.

This book is an examination of show more key themes and periods of the Roman Republic. If you know something of the historical framework and the wider context then it is a rewarding read. Crawford makes some good observations about the solidarity of the senatorial aristocracy, the militaristic essence of that aristocracy, the effects of Greek influence and the nature of reactions to it, issues arising from a growing empire, and the breakdown of senatorial solidarity in the Republic's last century. He utilizes his studies of ancient coins during the discussion as well as inscriptions and other representational evidence.

The real caveat with this title is its age: its scholarship was only seven years old when I purchased it as a first year undergraduate in 1985. Things have moved on considerably since then. Focus has shifted from politics and economics to issues such as identity and representation. Crawford still has valuable things to say, but one needs to check how understandings have progressed in the intervening 37 years. show less

This is a short book of just 200 pages, part of the Fontana History of the Ancient World series. Unfortunately, despite this being a fascinating period of history, the book is as dry as dust and I have not been able to finish it. No rating.

A key academic text for the study of ancient Greece, this title is often on the list of compulsory title for formal studies of this subject. Can be a bit dry, and is unlikely to be picked up and read as an interesting narrative, Crawford & Whitehead's book is nonetheless a very important, very elucidating and very useful book in Ancient Greek Studies.

A good overview of the last two centuries of the Roman Republic. Plenty of quotes from original sources. A relatively dry read, and it does not go into depth on personal motivations.