<p>'All roads lead to Rome, but the fight is over which Rome? Whose Rome? This eloquent, well-researched, and witty book shows us that not only are the flat black and white memories of Rome the product of cynical political exploitation, but that the real thing was a riot of color and complexity that was so much more interesting!'</p>
- David M. Perry, co-author of The Bright Ages and Oathbreakers,
'Brilliant. A fresh and highly engaging look at how Rome still shapes the world today.' Jonn Elledge
'This book will change the way you think about world history.' Raphael Cormack
'Authoritative and engaging.' Subhadra Das
'A fascinating and entertaining analysis of how Rome’s propaganda has colonized our collective imaginations.' Eleanor Janega
'Eloquent, well-researched, and witty.' David M. Perry
Rome is more than just a city; it’s an enduring idea, a symbol of identity, power, and legitimacy that has shaped the course of history for over 1,500 years. From ancient emperors to modern world leaders, Rome’s influence in building the world we know today is undeniable.
In All Roads Lead to Rome, author and historian Rhiannon Garth Jones embarks on a fascinating exploration of how the idea of Rome has been seized by emperors, modern governments, religious leaders and even pop-culture icons.
Each chapter examines how Rome’s famous history, politics, and mythology have been reimagined through the centuries, and explores how these interpretations continue to shape our modern world. Whether you’re interested in history, contemporary global issues, or simply curious about why Rome remains relevant, this book offers a fresh perspective on the lasting significance of one of history’s most famous civilisations.
So, how many times a day do you think about the Roman Empire? The general consensus seems to be an awful lot, and All Roads Lead to Rome explains why. So, dive into the history of Rome and its pervasive influence and gain a deeper understanding of the forces shaping the global landscape today.
Explore the timeless influence of Ancient Rome in this compelling, insightful book, and learn how its legacy continues to shape our world today. Whether you’re interested in history, contemporary global issues, or you're simply curious about why Rome remains relevant, this book offers a fresh perspective on the lasting significance of one of history’s most famous civilizations.
Maps vi
Cities of the Roman Empire xvi
1. Introduction
Part One Religion
2. The New Rome
3. The Holy Roman Empire
4. The Third Rome
Part Two Empire
5. Conquering Rome: the Ottoman Empire
6. Pax Romana, Pax Britannica
7. Roman Fasces, European Fascism
Part Three Culture
8. Rivalling Rome: the Empires of Early Islam
9. The New Republic: USA Edition
10. Conclusion: All Roads Lead to Rome
Want to Know More?
Full Bibliography
Timeline
Acknowledgements
Index
Evocative and timely, All Roads Lead to Rome is a contemporary, accessible exploration of one of history’s most fascinating eras. Covering classical history through to present-day global issues, this is an essential read that offers a fresh perspective for anyone interested in history or popular culture.