[Book] SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome by Mary Beard
Book & Audiobook Review
SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome by Mary Beard
Book & Audiobook Review:
SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome by Mary Beard offers an expansive yet approachable exploration of Rome’s vast history. Spanning centuries, it focuses on the broader arcs of Roman civilization rather than minute details of individual lives, such as Augustus or Claudius. While it assumes some familiarity with Roman history, the book remains highly accessible, striking a balance between academic rigor and engaging narrative.
For me, the audiobook was an absolute delight. Narrated by Phyllida Nash, the performance adds a conversational tone to Beard’s already accessible prose, making the complexities of Roman history feel approachable and vibrant. Nash’s narration captures Beard’s wit and sharp insights, allowing the listener to truly savor the quotable gems scattered throughout, like:
"It is a dangerous myth that we are better historians than our predecessors. We are not."
The audiobook format further enhances the readability that some might find “almost too easy” in print. The pacing of the narration slows you down just enough to absorb the rich details and thought-provoking commentary.
What stood out most was Beard’s ability to challenge preconceived notions about Rome. She reveals how much of what we “know” about Rome has been shaped by biased sources—often written by the victors—and encourages readers to rethink familiar narratives, especially concerning Rome’s enemies or those who fell out of favor. This reflection on history's inherent subjectivity feels especially resonant in our modern context.
For fans of Roman history, this book is an excellent entry point or a valuable continuation of their studies. A word of warning: if you’ve seen I, Claudius or Rome, you might find yourself picturing the likes of James Purefoy as Marc Antony! This blending of pop culture with historical exploration only adds to the fun, making SPQR an enlightening and entertaining journey into ancient Rome. Highly recommended, especially in audiobook form!
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