The Emperor Domitian

by Brian W. Jones

Domitian, Emperor of Rome AD 81-96, has traditionally been portrayed as a tyrant, and his later years on the throne as a `reign of terror'. Brian Jones' biography of the emperor, the first ever in English, offers a more balanced interpretation of the life of Domitian, arguing that his foreign policy was realistic, his economic programme rigorously efficient and his supposed persecution of the early Christians non-existent.
Central to an understanding of the emperor's policies, Brian Jones proposes, is his relationship with his court, rather than with the senate. Roamn historians will have to take account of this new biography which in part represents a rehabilitation of Domitian.

Genres: Biography, History, Nonfiction

304 pages, Hardcover

First published April 22, 1992

Reviews

[Joe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Augustus II without the house of Julii

Domitian: Man of the Court

[Zachary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is rightfully considered a classic. The reputation of Domitian for a very, very long time was that of the tyrannical monster he was made out to be by the senators who hated him, and the Nervan-Antonine dynasty that came after him. Jones does a thorough re-evaluation of the man and his rule by objectively examining the historical record. What emerges is not a monster by any means. Domitian was ruthless, yes, but also efficient, organized, very intelligent, with clear ideas of how the empire should be run. He oversaw an improvement of the currency, consolidation of conquests made by his predecessors, and a smooth justice system. In short, he was a model emperor, save for the fact that he was an introvert, which was considered un-Roman, and he was so honest that he could neither massage egos like a politician nor hide the autocratic nature of the imperial office like Augustus. In many ways, he is an anachronism, as his style of rule is really more typical of the Dominate of the later empire. Domitian, in short, was a good emperor who came around a few centuries too early. Jones' book makes an excellent case for this view. While dry, it is readable, with some wry humor thrown in from time to time that made it actually quite delightful to read.

[Jake Gonnella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easily the best history of Domitian's principate (if not the entire Flavian period from Vespasian to Domitian) available, far more accessible and organized than Levick's account of Vespasian and his family.

[Casty · Rating 4 out of 5]

better than the other one - making history extension feel easier

[Tim Baldini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brian W. Jones has devoted most of his scholarly career to the Flavian dynasty and that expertise shows in this work. A ground breaking look at the 'tyrant' Domitian and his times. Heavy reading - yes, but this isn't a 'popular' account.

[Belinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very useful textbook on the Emperor Domitian. Great to use in addition to the ancient sources to get the full picture on the life of this very interesting man.