The Early History of Rome: Books I-V of the History of Rome from Its Foundation (Penguin Classics)

'I hope my passion for Rome's past has not impaired my judgement; for I do honestly believe that no country has ever been greater or purer than ours or richer in good citizens and noble deeds' Livy dedicated most of his life to writing some 142 volumes of history, the first five of which comprise The Early History of Rome . With stylistic brilliance, he chronicles nearly 400 years from the founding of Rome to the Gallic invasion in 386 BC, an era that witnessed the establishment of the Republic, unrest and brutal conflict. Bringing compelling characters to life, and re-presenting familiar tales - including the tragedy of Coriolanus and the story of Romulus and Remus - The Early History is a truly epic work, and a passionate warning that a nation should learn from its history. Translated by Aubrey DE Sélincourt with an Introduction by R. M. Ogilvie and a Preface by S. P. Oakley "In Livy's epic history of Rome he unashamedly praised his country's virtues and urged against its excesses, in order to keep it great. He dedicated most of his life to writing some 142 volumes of history, the first five of which comprise The Early History of Rome." "With stylistic brilliance and historical imagination Livy (c. 59 BC - AD 17) brings alive the great characters and scenes from Rome's past, beginning with the foundation of Rome, through the history of the seven kings, the establishment of the Republic and its internal struggles, up to recovery after the Gallic invasion of the fourth century BC. He also vividly re-presents familiar legends and tales, including the story of Romulus and Remus."--Jacket Contents Introduction: Livy The Evidence The History Book One. Rome Under the Kings Book Two. The Beginnings of the Republic Book Three. The Patricians at Bay Book Four. War and Politics Book Five. The Capture of Rome SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER READING INDEX