The History of Rome (Mommsen)
Multi-volume history of ancient Rome by Theodor Mommsen.
A subsequent book was issued which concerned the provinces of the Roman Empire. The initial three volumes won widespread acclaim upon publication; indeed, 'The Roman History made Mommsen famous in a day.' Still read and qualifiedly cited, it is the prolific Mommsen's most well-known work. The work was specifically cited when Mommsen was awarded the Nobel Prize.
- field
- Ancient Roman history
- nationality
- German
- known_for
- The History of Rome (Römische Geschichte)
Lore & Background
Writing the History followed Mommsen's earlier achievements in the study of ancient Rome. Invited to give a public lecture while at Leipzig, he delivered an address on the Gracchi. Reimer and Hirzel, the publishers, were present, and two days later they asked him to write a Roman History for their series. Having been dismissed from the University for revolutionary activities, Mommsen would accept the publishing proposal partly for his livelihood, and partly because the work greatly appealed to him. The publishers specified that the work focus on events and circumstances, and avoid discussing the scholarly process. They sought a well-respected academic work with literary merit that would be accessible and appeal to the educated public.
Reader's Guide
A planned fourth volume on the Empire was delayed pending Mommsen's completion of a 15-volume work on Roman inscriptions and was eventually abandoned; an early manuscript may have been lost in a fire. The work's significance lies in its combination of scientific learning with stylistic vigor, and it was specifically cited when Mommsen was awarded the Nobel Prize. The English translation by William Purdie Dickson saw close to a hundred editions and reprints.
Did You Know?
- The work was specifically cited when Mommsen was awarded the Nobel Prize.
- A planned fourth volume on the Empire was delayed and eventually abandoned; an early manuscript may have been lost in a fire.
- The English translation by William Purdie Dickson saw close to a hundred editions and reprints.
Frequently Asked Questions
What periods of Roman history does the original work cover?
The first three volumes trace the political and social development of the Roman Republic. A subsequent book then turned to the provinces within the Roman Empire.
Why is Mommsen's History of Rome considered significant?
The work earned immediate and widespread critical praise upon release, effectively making Mommsen famous overnight in academic circles. It continues to be read and cited by scholars working in ancient Roman history.
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