Augustus: The Life and Times of the Founder of the Roman Empire

In this engaging portrait of Rome's first emperor, listeners are taken on a journey through the tumultuous years that saw the Republic on the brink of collapse and a shrewd statesman rise to forge a lasting empire. The narrative follows Augustus from his early alliances and rivalries, through the decisive battles that secured his power, to the careful reshaping of institutions that brought unprecedented stability. It highlights his talent for turning opposition into loyal service and his skill in presenting reform as continuity rather than radical change.

The author builds the story on a careful reading of ancient historians, inscriptions, and the very monuments Augustus left behind, offering a balanced portrait that acknowledges both his political ruthlessness and his visionary governance. By weaving in contemporary poetry and the emperor’s own self‑portrayal, the biography gives a vivid sense of the public image he cultivated. Listeners will come away with a nuanced understanding of why later rulers looked to him as the model for imperial authority.