Michael Grant's The World of Rome may look stuffy and long-winded, but the truth is that this book offers an excellent, and comparably concise, introduction to most pertinent aspects of Roman culture. However, it was the many illuminating quotes and the Notes for Further Reading which I found most delightful. ( )

This is a collection of essays by Michael Grant on the history and culture of the Romans from 133 B.C. to 217 A. D. It is divided into four sections covering The Roman Empire, State and Society, Beliefs, and Literature and the Arts. Within these sections are essays on the history, rulers, public, religion, philosophy, and arts during this period. Michael Grant's discussion of this civilization is readable and extensive; an excellent introduction to what is one of the foundations of current Western Civilization. ( )

12/2/22