Man of High Empire: The Life of Pliny the Younger

Name: Man of High Empire: The Life of Pliny the Younger
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Book Synopsis: Pliny the Younger (c. 60-112 C.E.)--senator and consul in the Rome of emperors Domitian and Trajan, eyewitness to the eruption of Vesuvius in 79, and early 'persecutor' of Christians on the Black Sea--remains Rome's best documented private individual between Cicero and Augustine. No Roman writer, not even Vergil, ties his identity to the regions of Italy more successfully than Pliny. His individuality can be captured by focusing on the range of locales in which he lived: from his hometown of Comum (Como) at the foot of the Italian Alps, down through the villa and farms he owned in Umbria, to the senate and courtrooms of Rome and the magnificent residence he owned on the coast near the capital. Organized geographically, Man of High Empire is the first full-scale biography devoted solely to the Younger Pliny. Reserved, punctilious, occasionally patronizing, and perhaps inclined to overvalue his achievements, Pliny has seemed to some the ancient equivalent of Mr. Collins, the unctuous vicar of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Roy K. Gibson reveals a man more complex than this unfair comparison suggests. An innovating landowner in Umbria and a deeply generous benefactor in Comum, Pliny is also a consul who plays with words in Rome and dispenses summary justice in the provinces. A solicitous, if rather traditional, husband in northern Italy, Pliny is also a literary modernist in Rome, and--more surprisingly--a secret pessimist about Trajan, the 'best' of emperors. Pliny's life is a window on to the Empire at its zenith. The book concludes with an archaeological tour guide of the sites associated with Pliny.

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Step back in time and immerse yourself in the life and adventures of Pliny the Younger with 'Man of High Empire.' This meticulously researched biography sheds light on one of Rome's most intriguing figures and offers a glimpse into the vibrant world of ancient Rome. Delve into the Roman Empire's heyday and uncover the complexities of a man who straddled various roles with grace and intellect.

Roy K. Gibson's 'Man of High Empire' is a captivating exploration of Pliny the Younger's life, spanning from the majestic landscapes of Italy to the hallowed halls of the Roman Senate. Gibson's meticulous attention to detail and insightful analysis paint a vivid portrait of a man who navigated the complexities of ancient Roman society with finesse and foresight. Discover the hidden depths of Pliny's character and the impact he left on the Empire during its zenith.

Uncover the secrets and intrigues of ancient Rome through the lens of Pliny the Younger's life journey. 'Man of High Empire' offers a unique perspective on the intersection of power, culture, and personal identity in the Roman world. Whether you are a history buff, a literature enthusiast, or simply curious about the lives of influential figures, this biography will transport you to a time of grandeur and ambition.

Embark on a literary adventure with 'Man of High Empire' and delve into the rich tapestry of Pliny the Younger's life. From the rolling hills of Umbria to the bustling streets of Rome, follow in the footsteps of a man who straddled tradition and innovation, politics and poetry. Roy K. Gibson's masterful storytelling and scholarly insights make this biography a must-read for anyone captivated by the allure of ancient Rome.

Ready to uncover the legacy of Pliny the Younger and explore the heights of the Roman Empire? Dive into the pages of 'Man of High Empire' and journey through history with one of Rome's most enigmatic figures. Order your copy today and embark on a literary voyage through the past!

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