Cassius Dio: The Augustan Settlement - Aris & Phillips Classical Texts by Dio Cassius Paperback

About the Book

Dio Cassius' Roman History contains the fullest surviving account of the reign of Augustus. This edition of Books 53-55 covers the years 28-5 BC and includes Dio's extended discussion of the constitutional settlement of 27 BC and the imperial system it inaugurated. Ancient Greek text with facing translation, introduction and commentary.

Book Synopsis

Dio Cassius, too often consulted just as a historical source, was an historian of considerable interest and originality - at once a Greek man of letters and a late representative of the Roman tradition of senatorial historical writing. For the reign of Augustus his history is the fullest account to survive. This edition covers the years 28 to 5 BC, after which there are substantial gaps in Dio's text; it includes Dio's extended discussion of the constitutional settlement of 27 BC and the imperial system it inaugurated. The notes discuss the historical subject matter and Dio's treatment of it; particular attention is paid to the way Dio shaped his material in the light of his own values and interests. The introduction deals with Dio's life, the character of his history, and his view of Augustus. Ancient Greek text with facing-page English translation, introduction and commentary.

Review Quotes

'Rich brings to bear two admirable qualities: serious attention to Dio as a thinker in his own right and a broad familiarity with the history and scholarship of the Augustan period... a useful guide to at least a part of the best extant history of the regime we possess.'
Bryn Mawr Classical Review

'This volume adds much to the study of Roman history. Students, scholars, and interested persons will find this updated version of an important ancient author interesting and helpful.'
Classical World