The Breakdown of the Roman Republic: From Oligarchy to Empire

Description

In this book, Christopher S. Mackay recounts the last century of the Roman Republic in a readable narrative treatment. Within this narrative he analyzes the breakdown of the traditional Republican form of government as a result of the administrative and political crises brought about by the Roman conquest of the Mediterranean basin in the Middle Republic. He also shows how the many reforms instituted by Augustus, which effectively created the new imperial form of government, were a reaction to the failings of the Republic. Illustrated with an extensive collection of coin images that document the changes in contemporary political ideology, this volume also focuses on the political significance of the key personalities, including Marius, Sulla and Caesar, who played a large role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic.

Christopher S. Mackay is a professor in the Department of History and Classics at the University of Alberta.

Review of the hardback: 'Christopher S. Mackay has written an exemplary and noteworthy account of the late Roman Republic's transition from oligarchy to empire ... a popular masterpiece that will please all but the most ardent admirers of Cicero and the most diehard of populares. His work deserves a place [in] every university and public library collection. Bravo.' Bryn Mawr Classical Review