This work analyzes the colourful decline of the Roman Empire during the reign of the Severans, the first non-Italian dynasty. It describes the foreign wars waged against the Alemanni and the Persians, and the remarkable personalities of the imperial family. The reader encounters Julia Domna’s alleged literary circle, or Elagabalus’ curious private life - which included dancing in the streets, marrying a vestal virgin and smothering his enemies with rose petals. With its plate section, maps and bibliography, this book should appeal to the student of ancient history as well as to the general reader.