The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire
Edited in Seven Volumes with Introduction, Notes, Appendices, and Index

J. B. Bury's authoritative seven-volume edition (1896–1900) of Edward Gibbon's magisterial account of the relationship between Roman imperialism and Christianity.

Edward Gibbon (Author), J. B. Bury (Edited by)

9781108050715, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 14 February 2013

538 pages, 1 map
21.6 x 14 x 3 cm, 0.68 kg

The pre-eminent historian of his day, Edward Gibbon (1737–94) produced his magnum opus in six volumes between 1776 and 1788. Reissued here is the authoritative seven-volume edition prepared by J. B. Bury (1861–1927) between 1896 and 1900. Immediately and widely acclaimed, Gibbon's work remains justly famous for its magisterial account of Roman imperialism and Christianity from the first century CE through to the fall of Constantinople and beyond. Innovative in its use of primary sources and notable for its tone of religious scepticism, this epic narrative stands as a masterpiece of English literature and historical scholarship. Volume 1 commences with the early emperors and a survey of the empire's extent and expansion. Examining Roman culture, law, government, slavery and agriculture, Gibbon guides the reader through three centuries to Constantine's emergence as sole emperor in 324.

Preface
Introduction
1. The extent and military force of the empire, in the age of the Antonines
2. Of the union and internal prosperity of the Roman empire in the age of the Antonines
3. Of the constitution of the Roman empire, in the age of the Antonines
4. The cruelty, follies and murder of Commodus
5. Public sale of the empire to Didius Julianus by the praetorian guards
6. The death of Severus
7. The elevation and tyranny of Maximin
8. Of the state of Persia after the restoration of the monarchy by Artaxerxes
9. The state of Germany till the invasion of the barbarians, in the time of the emperor Decius
10. The emperors Decius, Gallus, Aemilianus, Valerian, and Gallienus
11. Reign of Claudius
12. Conduct of the army and senate after the death of Aurelian
13. The reign of Diocletian and his three associates
14. Troubles after the abdication of Diocletian.

Subject Areas: Ancient history: to c 500 CE [HBLA]