Imperium

Imperium by Robert Harris (Random House)
If you love Troy, Gladiator and 300, this book is for you. The narrative follows a young Roman Senator's quest to attain his highest ambition. The Senator is Cicero, and his goal is to achieve Imperium – the ultimate level of political power in the state.

Based on Cicero's actual courtroom speeches and his famous letters to Atticus, the novel blends historical fact with the emotional depth of real and imagined characters. The story is told through the voice of Tiro, Cicero's slave and personal secretary.

I was swept along by the vivid descriptions of Republican Rome – the bustling political treachery of the city, the pastoral scenes of country life – and the brilliance of the courtroom dramas which form the basis of the novel.

Robert Harris is careful to show Cicero as he really (or probably) was – a man who habitually fought heroically in the courtroom under the pretence of patriotism and compassion – while in fact, his only aim was to further his political career.

From his magnificent court battle with Verres – the corrupt Roman governor of Sicily – to his prickly dance of death with the up-and-coming Julius Caesar, Cicero above all else sought to elevate himself to Rome's highest level of power.

This book is great for anyone with an interest in law, ancient Rome, or who just wants to be inspired by a truly great mind.

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