Imperium: A Novel of Ancient Rome

Robert Harris, with his Cicero Trilogy - "Imperium," "Lustrum" (published as "Conspirata" in the US), and "Dictator" - has achieved something remarkable in historical fiction. These books do not merely recount the life of the legendary Roman statesman and orator, Marcus Tullius Cicero; they resurrect him, breathing into the annals of history a vibrant, palpable sense of immediacy and relevance. "Imperium," the first in the series, is a tour de force that introduces us to Cicero at the onset of his political career. Harris's narrative, ingeniously framed through the eyes of Cicero's secretary Tiro, who historically is credited with inventing shorthand, allows readers an intimate glimpse into the political machinations of ancient Rome. The novel is a compelling blend of political intrigue, vivid characterization, and a meticulously researched historical backdrop. Harris's portrayal of Cicero is not just that of a political figure, but of a man driven by ambition, yet bound by moral integrity. In "Lustrum" (or "Conspirata"), Harris elevates the stakes. Here, we see Cicero at the height of his power, but also at the precipice of his downfall. The novel delves into the darker corners of Roman politics, where conspiracy and ambition lead to a tumultuous and dangerous landscape. Harris's ability to create suspense is unparalleled, even though the outcome is a matter of historical record. The reader is transported into the heart of political battles and moral dilemmas, feeling each triumph and setback as if they were occurring in real time. The trilogy concludes with "Dictator," a poignant and powerful finale. This book covers the last fifteen years of Cicero's life, a period marked by personal and political turmoil. Harris's portrayal of Cicero's last years is not just a recounting of events; it's a deep, introspective look at the ideals of democracy and the nature of power. The narrative is both epic and intimate, capturing the grandeur of Roman history and the personal tragedies of Cicero's life with equal effectiveness. Throughout the trilogy, Harris's prose is a standout. It is elegant yet accessible, bringing the complexities of Roman politics and society to life in a way that is both educational and immensely entertaining. The level of detail in his descriptions of the Roman Senate, the Forum, and daily life in ancient Rome is astounding, providing a vivid backdrop against which the drama unfolds. Moreover, Harris's Cicero is a brilliantly realized character - a man of great intellect and eloquence, yet filled with doubts and vulnerabilities. The supporting cast, from Julius Caesar to Pompey the Great, are equally well-drawn, each adding depth and color to the rich tapestry of the narrative. In conclusion, Robert Harris's Cicero Trilogy is a monumental achievement in historical fiction. It offers not just a window into the past, but a mirror reflecting our own times. Through the life of Cicero, Harris explores themes of power, integrity, and the fragile nature of democracy, themes that resonate just as strongly today as they did over two thousand years ago. This series is a must-read for anyone interested in history, politics, or simply a masterfully crafted story that transcends the ages. Harris has not only written a definitive account of Cicero's life but has also set a new standard in historical fiction.

Thoroughly enjoyed this book which tells the story of Cicero and his pursuit of the consulship of Rome during the years of the Late Republic. More than anything it reminded me that little has changed in the world of politics. There is intrigue, conspiracy, honest as well as dishonest men. There are those who, like Cicero, stood for the greater good and representation of the common man. Cicero was a brilliant orator and politician and Harris does a great job weaving this into his story. If possible, I’d have given the book 4.5 stars, reserving 5 stars for books that are life-changing.

This is probably the most interesting book you will ever read that contains no action, no violence, no nothing except legal intrigue and courtroom drama. Plus it’s all [mostly, probably] true. The story takes place in Rome more than six centuries after its founding, at a time when the ideas of patriotism, fairness, just politicians, and morality (such as it was then) are giving way to corruption, and the country is about to transition from a republic to an autocracy. The central character is Marcus Cicero, a man who rises from an obscure nobody to become Consul (the highest level of leadership in government), and becomes known as the greatest orator in history. Using only his voice and his astonishing talent for presentation, he begins his career by advocating in court for a man who lost everything to a corrupt Roman governor. After winning the case in grand style, he proceeds to astound commoners and senators alike with his remarkable powers of speech and his penchant for championing the underdog. As the story progresses, Cicero rises through the ranks of leadership, gaining allies and friends, and making mortal enemies. Along the way he acquires the support of the great general Pompey, he gains the enmity of the slightly less great general Crassus, and he watches as a young Julius Caesar enters politics and begins his journey to become Rome’s first dictator. The book ends as Cicero wages a successful campaign to become Consul. The story is told by Tiro, Cicero’s slave and personal assistant and confidant. It is written as if Tiro were reading from his own account of Cicero’s life. In fact, there was a Tiro who presumably did write a biography; unfortunately, that record has been lost to time. The whole book contains only one or two instances of physical violence, yet it captures your interest the same as the best thrillers; this is a testament not only to the unequaled ability of Cicero to produce an enormous quantity of captivating and persuasive speeches, but also to the author’s ability to turn politics and courtroom adventure into something that is highly readable. This is what you would expect if John Grisham or Greg Iles traveled back in time to document early Roman history. The story is in truth history that has been turned into a readable novel. The major events actually happened, and anything not found in recorded history was written in such a way that it “could” have happened. According to the author, “nothing, I hope…demonstrably did not happen.” This is the first book in a series of three, and it easily rates five stars. I look forward to reading the next two.

Robert Harris presents a lively fresco that brings the classical Rome back to life, giving voice not just to the grandiose speeches of the Senate but also to the shrewd manoeuvres that happen between the scenes. And mainly this book is the tale of an ambitious man as he chooses between principle and succes

This is another excellent historical by Robert Harris which I can thoroughly recommend. Although I know this period of Roman history reasonably well, it kept me very interested throughout and had me wanting to continue my reading of it as quickly as I could. Some may be disappointed that it does not have the same kind of plot line as Pompeii, but it is a different sort of book - a reflection of how politicians strive to get power and how they wield it when they have it, together with the lengths that they will go to and the compromises (not least with their own principles) that they are prepared to make. Nothing new under the sun there! Harris has a very readable and articulate style, and wears his historical knowledge lightly. He brings late Republican Rome to life, whether the seedy apartment blocks of the Subura, the grand villas of the rich and mighty, or the senate and court houses where Cicero and others are making their thunderous speeches. And his use of Cicero's private secretary to tell the tale works excellently, with Tiro giving a slightly different perspective from his master's on the events and characters being described. Well worth buying and reading!

For those laymen who have just a nominal knowledge of Rome... Imperium comes out as a superb historical fiction. It introduces us to the murky waters of powerplay in the Rome... in the last days of the republic. The royalty, the neo rich and those of common birth who have risen by talent or chance to be among the heavy players, are gathered here. The politics, the bribery and the scandals... the blatant disregard for truth and justice is all here. Their is flamboyant oratory about principles and ideals ... which is nothing but a farce... a front of the myraid manipulations behind the scenes. All in all here is Rome at is meanest. The first part is about Cicero taking up a highly politicized case against one Verres who is a very well connected and very rich (not to mention... highly corrupt) ex governor of Sicily. Cicero is no blue bood and is among those who are hated by royalty. He is not one who is extravagantly rich ... but has made an enemy out of Crassus the richest person in Rome, not to mention a host of royalty. On the other hand Verres is Cicero reversed, Ciceros enemies (and they are many and all powerful) are Verres friends. The book reads like a thriller where a idealistic senator (read Cicero!) takes on a corrupt power (read Verres!) against all odds which may prove fateful to him and his career. The next part is more about how Cicero takes up his ambition and with the utmost of manipulation and disregard to any principles rises to the position of consul against all odds and machinations. All along the way you see a Rome that is cut throat, where Cicero is oft and again walking on the very edge of a razor and where anything can happen. A superb mystery which is surprisingly a historical fiction.

Dies ist ein hochinteressantes Buch über das Leben von Cicero. Es gibt einen guten Einblick in das Leben der damaligen Gesellschaft. Es ist kein Sachbuch, es bleibt zwar so nah wie möglich an den tatsächlichen Fakten, die aber in einen spannenden Roman gekleidet sind, den man nicht mehr aus der Hand legen möchte. Ich kann es nur empfehlen. von Amazon bestätigter Kauf

The conveyed athmosphere, rhythm and language of this fascinating historical thriller has few matches. The lack of violence is extremely refreshing, this is the first book which delivers page turning anxiousness which is based on speeches.