Copyright Date:
2006
Edition Date:
2006
Release Date:
01/24/06
Pages:
x, 383 pages
ISBN:
1-85109-730-9
ISBN 13:
978-1-85109-730-2
Dewey:
355.00937
LCCN:
2005030389
Dimensions:
27 cm.
Language:
English
Reviews:
School Library Journal
Gr 10 Up-This informative, well-researched volume skillfully covers the history of this formidable force from the beginnings of the Roman Empire in the eighth century B.C.E. until its fall in the late fifth century A.D. The broad spectrum of subjects, such as the history, culture, and organization of the army; weapons; morale and discipline; renowned soldiers and battles; and the army, both in peacetime and at war, are arranged thematically. Black-and-white photographs complement the text. An appendix detailing rank structure in the army, a user-friendly glossary, a complete bibliography, and an accurate index round out the package. With its scholarly tone, Southern's work is best suited for Advanced Placement World History students. Hillary Donitz-Goldstein, formerly of the New York Public Library
Bibliography Index/Note:
Includes bibliographical references (pages 343-349) and index.
This wide-ranging study of the Roman army covers its political, historical, and social aspects as well as its peacetime occupations and its operation in war. The Roman Army: A Social and Institutional History offers a revealing portrait of a legendary fighting force in peacetime and at war from a soldier's-eye view. Organized thematically, it explores the army's history, culture, and organization, while providing fascinating details of the soldier's daily life and of the army's interactions with citizens, politicians, and the inhabitants of conquered territories. Written by a leading scholar of Roman military history, The Roman Army helps readers appreciate the distinctive traits that helped the army sustain itself for nearly 1,000 years, including its adaptability (soldiers did civilian police and military duty and the army continually modified its tactics and weapons), as well as its training methods, compensation system, strict regimen of punishment and rewards, and its skill at "Romanizing" foreign lands. Readers will also see how historians pieced together their understanding of the army's way of life, drawing on everything from Rome's rich historical record to depictions of military subjects in literature and art.