The Greatest "Rome, History, Historical fiction" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Rome

The category of "Rome" in books refers to literature that is set in ancient Rome or focuses on the history, culture, and society of the Roman Empire. These books may include historical fiction, biographies, memoirs, and academic works that explore the political, social, and economic aspects of Rome. The genre may also encompass stories of gladiators, emperors, soldiers, and other figures from Roman mythology and history. Overall, the category of "Rome" offers readers a glimpse into one of the most influential civilizations in human history.

History

The category of "History" in books refers to the study and interpretation of past events, societies, and cultures. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including political, social, economic, and cultural developments, as well as the lives of individuals and groups who have shaped the course of history. History books can be written from various perspectives and may focus on specific time periods, regions, or themes. They aim to provide readers with a deeper understanding of the past and its impact on the present.

Historical fiction

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that combines fictional stories with real historical events, settings, and characters. These books often take place in a specific time period and are based on research and factual information, but also include imaginative elements to create a compelling narrative. Historical fiction allows readers to experience the past in a unique and engaging way, while also providing insight into the social, cultural, and political issues of the time.

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  1. 1. Memoirs of Hadrian by Marguerite Yourcenar

    "Memoirs of Hadrian" is a historical novel that presents a fictional autobiography of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, who reigned from 117 to 138 AD. Narrated in the first person, the novel explores Hadrian's ascension to the throne, his administration, his love for the young Antinous, and his philosophical reflections on life and death. The narrative is framed as a letter to his successor, Marcus Aurelius, offering insights into the complexities of power, the nature of leadership, and the human condition.

    The 310th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Death in Rome by Wolfgang Koeppen

    "Death in Rome" is a post-World War II novel that explores the lives of a German family, their friends, and associates during a reunion in Rome. Each character is representative of a different aspect of German society, and their interactions and experiences in the city serve as a commentary on the nation's struggle to come to terms with its recent past. The book also explores the themes of guilt, denial, and the lingering effects of war.

    The 2443rd Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Leo Africanus by Amin Maalouf

    This historical novel follows the life of a real-life Andalusian-born traveler of the 16th century, who is captured by Christian pirates and presented as a gift to the Pope. Renamed after the pontiff, he becomes a respected scholar and diplomat, navigating the complex cultural and religious divides of the Mediterranean world. Throughout his journeys, which take him from his birthplace in Granada to Fez, Timbuktu, Constantinople, and Rome, he witnesses the tumultuous events of his time, including the fall of Granada and the rise of the Ottoman Empire. His story is one of identity, belonging, and the universal quest for knowledge and understanding amidst a backdrop of conflict and change.

    The 6161st Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Lost Painting by Jonathan Harr

    "The Lost Painting" tells the story of a lost masterpiece by Italian Baroque artist Caravaggio, titled "The Taking of Christ." The book follows the journey of a young art historian, Francesca Cappelletti, as she sets out to uncover the painting's whereabouts. Along the way, she encounters a cast of characters including art dealers, art historians, and even a mafia boss. Through meticulous research and a bit of luck, Cappelletti finally locates the painting in a Dublin Jesuit house, where it had been hanging for centuries, unrecognized as a Caravaggio. The book is a captivating tale of art history, detective work, and the power of obsession.

    The 6928th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Claudius The God by Robert Graves

    "Claudius The God" is a historical novel that follows the life of Emperor Claudius, who unexpectedly rises to power in ancient Rome. Written as an autobiography, the book provides a unique perspective on the inner workings of the Roman Empire and the challenges faced by Claudius as he navigates political intrigue, assassination attempts, and the complexities of ruling a vast empire. With a blend of fact and fiction, the novel offers a vivid portrayal of Claudius' reign and the tumultuous era in which he lived.

    The 7960th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download