#IWD2016 Book review: SPQR: a history of ancient Rome by Mary Beard

With SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome, the renowned Cambridge classicist Mary Beard presents a new history of ‘the Senate and People of Rome’, covering over 1,000 years and a diverse array of themes. Marion Koob applauds this superb book for its gripping narrative threads, its persuasive account of Rome’s contemporary relevance and for drawing attention away from the colourful personalities of the Roman emperors to instead consider the structures and patterns of power through which they ruled. Put simply, this is an essential read.