Arther Ferrill

Unfortunately, there is relatively little primary source information on Caligula. As such, this biography is brief. Nonetheless, I found it informative and entertaining.

The author provides helpful background and context for a better understanding of Caligula's early life and family strife, as well as his complex familial connections which led to his rise to power. I particularly enjoyed the author's straightforward evaluation of the evidence. While many modern historians craft unnecessarily complex explanations/justifications for Caligula's actions, this author takes the "Occam's Razor" approach and generally concludes that Caligula was simply a deranged megalomaniac. Whether or not you agree with his conclusion in that regard, the book as an interesting and informative read. Highly recommended.… (mehr)

Ferrill attempts to fill the historiographical void in the study of ancient warfare, by extending it back into the Stone Age. He argues that modern military historians, who have focused on the origins of war in the classical Greek world, have failed to recognize the significant contributions of the Middle East and Egypt to the art of war.

Ferrill’s focus is on the way armies were organized, trained, equipped and how they were used on the campaign and in battle, not on the political, social or economic causes of war. This, for me, was a refreshing approach, one that swung the focus of military history back to armies and the manner in which they conducted their business.… (mehr)

A refreshing biography of Caligula. The author argues for the veracity of the ancient authors concerning the behaviour and actions of Caligula, seeking answers in his upbringing. Well argued, though perhaps too accepting in places of Tacitus, Suetonius, et al. He seeks to demolish the biographies of Balsdon and Barrett who endeavour to find logical reasons for Caligula's actions in misreadings of Latin and bias of the ancient authors. Ferrill's argument is, simply, that the man was unstable, and eventually, insane. Well written and easy to read, suitable for anyone interested in the period, though he does assume a basic knowledge of the history of the times.… (mehr)