The Fall of the Roman Empire

In this ground-breaking book, Peter Heather proposes a new solution to one of the greatest mysteries of history: the demise of the Roman Empire. Mixing authoritative analysis with thrilling narrative, he brings fresh insight into the panorama of the empire's end, from the bejewelled splendour of the Imperial court to the dripping forests of Barbaricum. He examines the successes of the Roman Empire and uses a new understanding of its continued strength and enduring limitations to show how Europe's barbarians, transformed by centuries of contact with Rome, eventually pulled it apart. 'Provides the reader with drama and lurid colour as well as analysis. Like a late Roman emperor, he is determined to impose order on a fabric that is always threatening to fragment and collapse into confusion; unlike most late Roman emperors, he succeeds triumphantly.' Sunday Times 'Heather presents the stories and the characters of this tumultuous epoch, in a colourful and enthralling narrative . . .an account full of enjoyably anachronistic flourishes, keen wit, and an infectious relish for the period.' Independent On Sunday 'The story is an exciting one, bursting with action, brutality . . . a gripping, and balanced account . . . one can recommend to anyone, whether specialist or interested amateur.' History Today 'A fascinating story, full of ups and downs and memorable characters.' Spectator