The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire

(Hardback)

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Description

Between 250 and 500 C.E., Rome was transformed from a mighty global empire into a collection of small Germanic kingdoms. These kingdoms (as well as the Byzantine Empire, which succeeded Rome in the east) aspired to recreate and reclaim the glory of the Roman Empire. A fascination with the glory of Rome persists to this day, making an examination of this time critical to anyone interested in politics or history. James Ermatinger's multifaceted account allows the reader a unique opportunity to view the many and complex elements that contributed to the demise of this vast empire, painting a vivid picture of a world in transition. Designed as an accessible introduction to this critical period, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire offers readers and researchers an appealing mix of descriptive chapters, biographical sketches, and annotated primary documents. An overview of the period is presented in the introduction, and is followed by chapters on late Roman culture, society, and economics in late antiquity; religious conflicts in Christian Rome; enemies of Rome; and why and when Rome fell. The narrative chapters conclude with a section placing Rome's fall in modern perspective. An annotated bibliography and index are included. This volume is ideal for use in the classroom, as well as for school and public libraries.

Reviews

Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates and two-year technical program students; general readers. * Choice *
Although each of these titles provides a lively, interesting overview of its respective subject, their real value lies in their primary-source material. . . . Both Greenwood volumes examine their topics through culture, religion, population changes, and history. Solid additions to Advanced Placement, High Honors, or undergraduate populations. (Reviewed in conjunction with The Reign of Cleopatra, Greenwood, 2004) * School Library Journal *
[D]esigned as a basic introduction to the period, combining lively chapters with biographical sketches of key figures and annotated primary source materials. Classroom as well as library use will keep The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire is wide circulation. * MBR Bookwatch *

Author Bio

James W. Ermatinger, Ph.D., is Professor and Chair of the Department of History at Southeast Missouri State University. He is the author of Economic Reforms of Diocletian (1996), as well as other articles on late Roman history.