Anthony Everitt on Nero, Rome’s Most Misunderstood Emperor

This biography by Adrian Goldsworthy recounts the life of Augustus, from his early involvement in Rome's violent politics to his eventual rise as the first emperor. Goldsworthy uses deep knowledge of ancient sources to detail Augustus's skillful maneuvering through civil wars, his outwitting of rivals like Antony and Brutus, and his reinvention as a benevolent leader. The book explores Augustus's administrative reforms, building projects, and efforts to secure the empire's borders, as well as his personal struggles and public image. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced view of Augustus's life, highlighting his political acumen and the complexities of historical interpretation.

This book provides a detailed and nuanced portrayal of Nero, exploring both the negative aspects of his reign and his achievements in managing the empire, promoting arts and culture, and diplomatic successes. It also delves into the complexities of ancient Rome, highlighting political intrigues and architectural projects during his time. Everitt and Ashworth challenge common perceptions of Nero, presenting a more balanced view of his rule.

In 'Conspiracy', Ryan Holiday chronicles the intricate and ambitious plot by Peter Thiel to take down Gawker Media. The book is based on interviews with key players and delves into the strategic and philosophical underpinnings of Thiel's actions. It examines the intersection of power, privacy, and free speech in the digital age, highlighting the ruthless and brilliant tactics employed by Thiel. The narrative transcends a simple tale of a billionaire vs. a media empire, offering insights into the broader implications for culture and society.

This book presents the fascinating lives of twenty-six ancient Stoics, from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius, organized in digestible mini-biographies. It vividly brings to life the stories of key Stoic philosophers, such as Seneca, Epictetus, and Cicero, and demonstrates how their philosophies shaped their actions and legacies. The authors intertwine historical context with philosophical insights, making the book both educational and entertaining. It shows how Stoic principles can be applied to modern life, emphasizing virtues like Courage, Justice, Temperance, and Wisdom.

This book delves into the life of Seneca, a Stoic philosopher, as he navigated the complexities and dangers of serving as an advisor to the Roman Emperor Nero. It examines Seneca's philosophical writings and their relevance to his personal and political struggles, providing insights into the intersection of philosophy and politics in ancient Rome.