Characters and events of Roman History

The book gathers a series of lectures originally delivered in Paris, Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Boston and other campuses, offering a compact overview of Roman history from Caesar to Nero. Its central claim is that the empire’s recurring crises stem not merely from economics but from shifting psychological habits driven by wealth, ambition and cultural contact. By weaving together political, social and moral analysis, the author invites listeners to see ancient Rome as a mirror for today’s own impulses.

Among the talks are vivid portraits of Antony and Cleopatra, the integration of Gaul, the turbulent reign of Nero, and the tragic clash between Roman ideals and Eastern influences in the stories of Julia and Tiberius. A lighter essay on the role of wine in Roman life shows how everyday customs can illuminate larger economic patterns, while the final lecture turns to the lessons Rome can still teach modern elites. The result is a thought‑provoking, accessible guide that brings the ancient world to life for anyone curious about the roots of Western civilization.