Roman History, Volume Two

By: Appian of Alexandria

Narrated by: Charlton Griffin

Volume Two of Appian's Roman History consists of his incredible chronicle of the Roman Civil War, which began in 133 B.C. with the conflict between the plebeians and the aristocracy over the attempted land reforms of the brothers Tiberius and Gaius Gracchus. Violence continues on and off for the next century, ending only in 31 B.C. with the victory of Octavius over Mark Antony at the naval battle of Actium.

What makes this particular chronicle so valuable to us today is the incredible detail in which the history of the civil wars have come down to us, especially in regard to the events transpiring after the death of Cornelius Sulla in 78 B.C. Unfortunately, the final conflict between Octavius and Antony is no longer extant, and the story ends about two years prior to the culminating victory at Actium. But the wealth of letters and amazing revelations of intrigue and deeds of heroism are reason enough to enjoy this great work of ancient history.

Translated from the Greek by Horace White.

Public Domain (P)2021 Audio Connoisseur

An account of the final days of the republic

The narration includes many datails. This is about betrayal, honor, brabery, boundless ambition.

The best book I've read in a while.

Great performance

Charlton Griffin once again brings us a great audio rendition of an important work of Classical literature.