Robert Graves

Robert Graves was a British poet, novelist, and scholar. He is best known for his historical novels such as 'I, Claudius' and 'Claudius the God,' as well as his poetry and translations of ancient texts. Graves served in World War I, an experience that influenced much of his writing. He was also known for his studies on mythology and his interpretation of the Greek myths.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. I, Claudius

    This historical novel is a first-person narrative told from the perspective of the Roman Emperor Claudius, who was considered an unlikely ruler due to his physical ailments and perceived lack of intelligence. The story covers the reigns of Augustus, Tiberius, and Caligula before Claudius unexpectedly becomes emperor. The narrative provides a critical look at the corruption, violence, and political machinations of the Roman Empire, offering a unique perspective on history.

  2. 2. Good-Bye to All That

    This memoir provides a candid and unflinching look at the horrors of World War I, as experienced by a young British officer. The narrative explores the brutality and futility of war, the author's struggle with shell shock, his disillusionment with the military and British society, and his decision to leave England for a new life abroad. It also offers insights into the author's personal life, including his troubled marriage and his relationships with other prominent figures of the time.

  3. 3. Seven Days In New Crete

    In this speculative fiction novel, a poet from the mid-20th century is transported into a future utopian society on the island of Crete, which has been renamed New Crete. This society has rejected industrialization and lives in harmony with nature, guided by matriarchal principles and the worship of a goddess. The poet, initially enchanted by the peaceful and artistic way of life, soon discovers underlying tensions and contradictions, particularly when he becomes involved in the island's rituals and politics. As a festival that reenacts a mythic battle between the gods approaches, the poet's presence and actions inadvertently set off a chain of events that challenge the society's values and stability, leading to a dramatic conclusion that questions the viability of utopia.

  4. 4. Claudius The God

    "Claudius The God" is a historical novel that follows the life of Emperor Claudius, who unexpectedly rises to power in ancient Rome. Written as an autobiography, the book provides a unique perspective on the inner workings of the Roman Empire and the challenges faced by Claudius as he navigates political intrigue, assassination attempts, and the complexities of ruling a vast empire. With a blend of fact and fiction, the novel offers a vivid portrayal of Claudius' reign and the tumultuous era in which he lived.

  5. 5. Collected Poems

    This anthology is a comprehensive collection of lyrical works by a prominent 20th-century poet known for his exploration of love, war, and mythology. The volume spans the poet's entire career, showcasing his evolution in style and thought, from his early poems reflecting the horrors of his wartime experiences to his later, more mature works that delve into themes of passion, nature, and the mythic. The poet's mastery of form and his unique blend of modern sensibilities with classical traditions have cemented his reputation as a significant literary figure, offering readers a rich tapestry of human emotion and intellectual depth.

  6. 6. King Jesus

    The novel is a historical fiction that offers a unique interpretation of the life of Jesus, blending myth, history, and scholarly reconstructions. The narrative presents Jesus not merely as a spiritual leader, but as a royal figure with a legitimate claim to the throne of a significant Eastern empire. The story delves into the political and religious intricacies of the time, reimagining biblical events and characters with a focus on the complex interplay of power, prophecy, and historical destiny. The author weaves a rich tapestry of ancient cultures and traditions, challenging conventional views of biblical history and providing a thought-provoking exploration of what might have been.