Caesar Augustus is one of the most fascinating figures in history. Plucked as teenager from provincial obscurity by his great-uncle Julius Caesar, who adopted him posthumously in his will, Augustus transformed the chaotic Republic into an orderly imperial autocracy. His consolidation of the Roman empire arguably laid the foundations of Europe.

Although a sickly young man, with a tendency to fall seriously ill at moments of crisis, Augustus taught himself to be brave and was intelligent, painstaking and patient. He worked extraordinarily hard, and, within a generation, had rebuilt Rome, transforming it into a splendid metropolis and centre for civil government and the arts.

In this dynamic and engaging biography, Anthony Everitt uncovers the deeply human character of this extraordinary man. It is also an exhilarating portrait of Roman social customs and politics.

'An exhilarating portrait of Roman social customs and politics' * Publishing News *
'A comprehensive and readable account of [Augustus and the Roman world]' * Literary Review *
'This biography of the first Roman Emperor depicts Augustus, the man who turned inner weaknesses into strengths and painstakingly restored Rome's civic greatness at home and military doinance abroad . . . Quite a guy' * Tony Matthews, Defence Focus *
'His story is also the story of perhaps the most vibrant period of Roman history' * Sunday Business Post *
'This sparky text certainly brings the Emperor to life, as well as a host of supporting characters' * Sunday Telegraph *
'(A) solid biography' * Guardian *

Anthony Everitt was Deputy Secretary-General of the Arts Council from 1985 to 1990, and Secretary-General until 1994. He is the author of the acclaimed biography CICERO: A TURBULENT LIFE, also published by John Murray.