Titus of Rome

by Alice Curtis Desmond

A biography of the second Flavian emperor who was noted for his generosity and regard for the people's welfare.

275 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1976

Reviews

[Garrett Glass · Rating 3 out of 5]

A 1976 issue in Alice Desmond's series of biographies, somewhat out of her usual area, which is American historical figures. She did considerable on-site research in London, Jerusalem, and Rome for this book. The prose style is basic, with good use of dialogue. It is hard to tell which scenes are imaginary, but it is clear she relies on contemporary defamatory portrayals of Domitian, who today receives better press as an administrator based on new research. She has nothing good to say about Flavius Josephus and treats Claudius as a drunk and a fool, but this was prior to the "I Claudius" series on Masterpiece Theatre. The chronology is straight-forward but there are no pauses for dramatic events - for example Titus' death/murder is shown in a few paragraphs before she moves on to the next topic. You would think she could spend some time lamenting the demise of the hero of the book.

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brisk, well-paced "historical novel".