Eutropius: Breviarium

This is the first full-scale translation and commentary on Eutropius, whose Breviarium (Abbreviated History of Rome) was a major vehicle for transmitting knowledge of Roman history to people of the Middle Ages and beyond. The book consists of a lengthy introduction to Eutropius, his times and the reasons for the book’s composition. His attitudes, style, sources, mode of composition and chronology are all discussed, as is his continuing popularity through the centuries. A translation of the Breviarium follows and this is accompanied by a historical and historiographical commentary. The book is primarily intended for students of the Late Roman Empire whose knowledge of Latin, Greek and modern languages is limited. It will also serve as an introduction to all students of Roman history since it covers the period 753BC to 364AD and has a full commentary. In addition, it should prove helpful to specialists in 4th century AD history and historiography.