Summary of Augustus
The historical novel “Augustus” chronicles the rise to power, as well as the later rule and family life, of the Roman emperor Augustus. It is told through a series of letters, reports, and diary entries. The book describes how, after the assassination of Julius Caesar, Augustus (Octavian), then an eighteen-year-old with little prospect of success, travels to Rome with only a few companions to avenge his adoptive father. He soon becomes embroiled in a series of civil wars—first against Brutus and Cassius, and later against Mark Antony and Cleopatra—ultimately consolidating his power. The novel then shifts to his years as emperor, his search for a successor, and his family life—particularly his relationships with his wife Livia and his daughter Julia.
Reasons to read Augustus
“Augustus” offers an intimate portrait of the first Roman emperor through writings attributed both to Augustus himself and to several of his contemporaries, including Maecenas and Agrippa. Each voice presents its own perspective on events and adopts a distinctive style. The novel is widely regarded as one of the finest literary portraits of ancient Rome and vividly evokes the turbulent period during which the Roman Republic was transformed into an empire. “Augustus” won the 1973 U.S. National Book Award for Fiction. John Williams, though often underappreciated during his lifetime, is now recognised as a major American author. Other notable works by Williams include “Butcher’s Crossing” and “Stoner”.
Setting: Rome (Italy)
“Augustus” is set in Rome and various locations across the Roman Empire.
Original title: Augustus
Year of publication: 1972
Nr of pages: 336
