Handbook to Life in Ancient Rome (Facts on File Library of World History)

A one-volume reference on the history of the Roman Empire covers more than 1,200 years of Roman rule from the 8th century B.C. to the 5th century A.D.

Amazon.com Review:

Archaeologists Lesley and Roy Adkins offer a sweeping overview of the Roman world in Handbook to Life in Ancient Rome. The authors, whose previous books include Dictionary of Roman Religion, An Introduction to Archaeology, and Handbook to Life in Ancient Greece, draw upon both archaeological and historical evidence to provide an authoritative and engaging look at an empire that lasted some 1,200 years and formed the basis for the development of Western jurisprudence and governmental systems.

The chapters are arranged thematically, and cover the republic, military affairs, geography, town and countryside, travel and trade, writing, religion, economy and industry, and everyday life. Within each chapter the authors cover an exhaustive range of subtopics. For instance, in the chapter on towns and countryside, one can find information that spans from the planning and construction of aqueducts to the furnishings found in the typical Roman apartment. Though each entry is fairly short, the authors include extensive bibliographies at the end of each chapter, as well as over 125 photographs, line drawings, and maps to round out the picture. Informative and entertaining, Handbook to Life in Ancient Rome is an illuminating guide to the Roman world.