A short 160 page biography that serves as an easy reading introduction to Caesar.

Unlike most, this work summarizes Caesar's many military engagements very briefly. This strategy allows for a straightforward, uncomplicated narrative that covers the major points of Caesar's incredibly interesting life. However, for those who desire more detail as to Caesar's Gallic and Civil Wars, far better resources exist.

Recommended. ( )

Classicist Michael Grant wrote this popular-level biography of Julius Caesar, the precursor to the later emperors who bore his name and considered themselves his successors. Grant retired early from academic life to devote himself to writing about ancient history for the general public, and this book is a fine example of his output. It is leavened throughout with quotes from Shakespeare's play.

This is a fine overview of Caesar's life which also introduces the reader to some of the key themes of the late Roman Republic. Grant opposes Caesar, the heir of Marius and the supposed power of the Roman voter, with his opponents in the families of Rome's established senatorial elite. Pompey is ever-present as Caesar emerges from his shadow and challenges his power, but Grant eventually dismisses Pompey as a political naif. Cicero is also present as the man who sympathizes with the passing Republic but, unlike Cato, attempts to accommodate himself to the new reality.

Caesar is well-known as a general and the as conqueror of Gaul. Grant gives full attention to his military brilliance, but never lets us forget that he was, first and foremost, a Roman politician. Despite this, Caesar was rarely in Rome when he returned from Gaul, preferring instead to defeat his opponents and busy himself in Egypt. Cleopatra is in this book, but it is not her biography.

Ultimately, this is a biography of Julius Caesar, not a book of history. You will understand the man, but will need to turn to other sources to truly understand the times.

Too short to be considered really academic. No reference at all to the influence Casear had on later times, the tape ends abruptly with his assassination. Good discussion of the first triumvarate, Caesar's various postings and his interaction with Cato and Cicero. All his genius and ability to get things done. ( )