The Greatest Roman, American "Rome" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Rome

The category of "Rome" in books refers to literature that is set in ancient Rome or focuses on the history, culture, and society of the Roman Empire. These books may include historical fiction, biographies, memoirs, and academic works that explore the political, social, and economic aspects of Rome. The genre may also encompass stories of gladiators, emperors, soldiers, and other figures from Roman mythology and history. Overall, the category of "Rome" offers readers a glimpse into one of the most influential civilizations in human history.

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  1. 1. The Aeneid by Virgil

    This epic poem tells the story of Aeneas, a Trojan who travels to Italy, where he becomes the ancestor of the Romans. It includes a series of prophecies about Rome's future and the deeds of heroic individuals, and is divided into two sections, the first illustrating the hero's journey and the second detailing the wars and battles that ensue as Aeneas attempts to establish a new home in Italy. The narrative is deeply imbued with themes of duty, fate, and divine intervention.

    The 75th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Complete Tales and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe by Edgar Allan Poe

    This collection brings together all of the author's most famous works, including poems, short stories, and novellas. Known for his macabre and gothic storytelling, the author's works are filled with themes of death, love lost, and human frailty. Notable inclusions are the haunting poem "The Raven," the chilling stories "The Tell-Tale Heart" and "The Fall of the House of Usher," and his only complete novel, "The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym."

    The 121st Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Confessions by Augustine

    "Confessions" is an autobiographical work by a renowned theologian, in which he outlines his sinful youth and his conversion to Christianity. It is written in the form of a long, introspective prayer directed to God, exploring the author's spiritual journey and deep philosophical ponderings. The book is renowned for its eloquent and deeply personal exploration of faith, making it a cornerstone of Christian theology and Western literature.

    The 148th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Metamorphoses by Ovid

    "Metamorphoses" is a classical epic poem that narrates the history of the world from its creation to the deification of Julius Caesar within a loose mythico-historical framework. The narrative is filled with stories of transformation, focusing on myths and legends of the Greek and Roman world. The tales, which include the stories of Daedalus and Icarus, King Midas, and Pyramus and Thisbe, among others, are all linked by the common theme of transformation, often as a punishment or reward from the gods.

    The 330th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Meditations by Marcus Aurelius

    "Meditations" is a collection of personal writings by a Roman Emperor, providing deep insights into Stoic philosophy. The book is a series of introspective reflections on how to deal with life's challenges with wisdom, integrity, self-discipline, and benevolent affection for all mankind. It serves as a manual for self-improvement and moral guidance, emphasizing the importance of accepting things outside of one's control and maintaining a tranquil mind amidst adversity.

    The 390th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. De Rerum Natura by Lucretius

    "De Rerum Natura" is a long didactic poem written in the first century BC, which explores Epicurean philosophy and the nature of the universe. The text delves into topics such as the nature of the gods, the atomic structure of the universe, human sensation and thought, and the fear of death. The author argues that understanding the physical world can free humans from superstition and fear, leading to peace of mind and true happiness.

    The 491st Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

    This thriller novel follows symbologist Robert Langdon and cryptographer Sophie Neveu as they investigate a murder in the Louvre Museum in Paris. The murder leads them to a trail of clues hidden in the works of Leonardo da Vinci, revealing a religious mystery protected by a secret society for two thousand years. The mystery involves a conspiracy within the Catholic Church and threatens to overturn the foundations of Christianity.

    The 616th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Annals by Cornelius Tacitus

    "Annals" is a historical work that provides a comprehensive account of the Roman Empire from the reign of Tiberius in 14 AD to the death of Nero in 68 AD. The author, a senator and historian of the Roman Empire, explores the inner workings of Roman politics, military campaigns, and social culture during this period. The book offers an in-depth look at the political machinations, power struggles, and the moral decay of the Roman elite, providing a critical perspective on the Roman emperors and their rule.

    The 901st Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. The Odes by Horace

    "The Odes" is a collection of lyric poems by an ancient Roman poet. The poems cover a wide range of themes, including love, friendship, wine, nature, morality, and the human condition. The author's style is noted for its elegance, wit, and mastery of meter. The poems also reflect the social and political context of Rome during the author's lifetime, providing insight into the culture and values of the period.

    The 1062nd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Lives of the Caesars by Suetonius

    "Lives of the Caesars" is a historical narrative that provides a detailed account of the personal and public lives of the first twelve Roman emperors, from Julius Caesar to Domitian. The author presents a vivid depiction of their character, behavior, appearance, and private lives, as well as their political actions, military exploits, and administrative policies. The book is a valuable source of information about the Roman Empire's early days, offering a unique perspective on the power, corruption, and extravagance of the Roman elite.

    The 1325th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Daisy Miller by Henry James

    "Daisy Miller" is a novella that explores the social differences between American and European society in the late 19th century. The story follows a young, affluent American woman named Daisy Miller, who defies societal norms while traveling in Europe. Her flirtatious behavior and disregard for European customs create a scandal among the upper-class expatriate community, particularly catching the attention of a young American man who is both attracted to and repulsed by her nonconformity. Ultimately, Daisy's refusal to conform to societal expectations leads to her downfall.

    The 1430th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Letters from a Stoic by Seneca

    "Letters from a Stoic" is a collection of moral epistles written by a renowned Stoic philosopher. The letters provide practical guidance on everything from dealing with adversity and the pursuit of wisdom to the folly of consumerism and the nature of friendship. The author's stoic philosophy encourages peace of mind through understanding and accepting the natural order of the universe, and his letters offer timeless wisdom and insights that are still relevant today.

    The 1703rd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Histories by Cornelius Tacitus

    "Histories" is a comprehensive account of the Roman Empire from 69-96 AD, a period marked by significant political turmoil. It provides an in-depth look at the reigns of four emperors: Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian, along with the social and political upheavals of the time. The narrative also covers the Jewish rebellion and the burning of the Jerusalem Temple, offering a rich historical context of the period. Despite some gaps in the record, it remains a crucial primary source for understanding this era of Roman history.

    The 1803rd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Augustus by John Williams

    "Augustus" is a historical novel that provides a comprehensive and vivid account of the life of Rome's first emperor, from his early years as a young and inexperienced politician, to his rise to power and his reign, which brought about the Pax Romana. The book presents a complex and humanized portrayal of Augustus, exploring his relationships, his philosophical reflections, his political strategies, and the challenges he faced in his personal and public life. The narrative is composed of fictional letters, memoirs, and other documents, providing a multi-faceted perspective on this pivotal figure and his era.

    The 2095th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Germania by Cornelius Tacitus

    "Germania" is a historical and ethnographic work that provides a detailed description of the lands, customs, and tribes of the Germanic people in the first century AD. The author, a Roman historian and senator, offers a comprehensive account of the geography, anthropology, social institutions, and military practices of the Germanic tribes, often comparing their culture and values to those of the Romans. The work is considered a valuable source of information about the ancient Germanic tribes, despite its possible biases and inaccuracies.

    The 2333rd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Titi Livi Ab urbe condita libri by Livy

    This historical work offers a comprehensive narrative of the history of Rome, from its mythical origins to the reign of the Roman Emperor Augustus. The author chronicles the major political, military, and social events of the Roman Republic, including the founding of the city, the establishment of the Republic, the Punic Wars, and the rise of Julius Caesar. The book is a significant source of information about the early history of Rome and is often considered one of the most important works of Roman history.

    The 2400th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Angels & Demons by Dan Brown

    In this fast-paced thriller, a renowned symbologist is called to the Swiss research facility CERN to investigate a mysterious symbol seared into the chest of a murdered physicist. His investigation leads him to the Vatican City, where he uncovers the resurgence of an ancient secret brotherhood known as the Illuminati. As a conclave is underway to elect a new Pope, the symbologist and a gifted Italian scientist race against time to prevent a powerful time bomb from destroying the Vatican. They embark on a frantic hunt through sealed crypts, dangerous catacombs, and deserted cathedrals, following a 400-year-old trail of ancient symbols that snake across Rome to the long-forgotten Illuminati lair.

    The 2769th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Poetry by Quintus Lutatius Catulus

    This book is a collection of ancient Roman poetry by a renowned statesman and poet. The poems reflect the author's experiences, thoughts, and feelings about life, love, politics, and society during the Roman Republic era. The author's eloquent and vivid writing style, combined with his astute observations and insights, make this book a valuable resource for understanding Roman culture and history.

    The 2844th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Roman Spring Of Mrs. Stone by Tennessee Williams

    The novel explores the emotional and psychological journey of a wealthy and recently widowed American actress who has retired to Rome. As she grapples with the fading allure of her beauty and career, she becomes involved with a young Italian man, who is revealed to be a gigolo. Their complex relationship is further complicated by the manipulative Contessa, who facilitates these liaisons. The story delves into themes of aging, desire, and the transactional nature of relationships, set against the backdrop of the evocative and decaying grandeur of post-war Rome.

    The 2942nd Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Catiline Orations by Marcus Tullius Cicero

    "Catiline Orations" is a series of speeches given by a renowned Roman statesman, which were aimed at exposing and condemning the conspiracy led by Lucius Sergius Catilina. The speeches, delivered in the Roman Senate, are a masterful display of oratory skills and political acumen, as the statesman successfully manages to turn the Senate against Catiline, ultimately leading to his downfall. The book offers an in-depth study of these speeches, providing valuable insights into Roman politics, rhetoric, and the art of persuasion.

    The 3093rd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Natural History by Pliny (the Elder)

    "Natural History" is an extensive work of literature that provides a comprehensive look at the knowledge of the natural world during the Roman era. The book is divided into 37 volumes, each focusing on different aspects such as geography, anthropology, zoology, botany, and mineralogy. The author's curiosity and fascination with the world are evident in his detailed observations and descriptions. The book also includes discussions on art, sculpture, and various other topics, providing a rich and detailed snapshot of the Roman understanding of the world.

    The 3202nd Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Rome And A Villa by Eleanor Clark

    This book is a rich and evocative travel memoir that takes the reader on a journey through the timeless beauty and layered history of Rome and its surroundings. The author, with a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for art and architecture, shares her experiences and observations as she explores the Eternal City and resides in an ancient villa. Through her lyrical prose, the narrative delves into the intermingling of past and present, revealing the city's enduring allure and the author's personal reflections on the cultural and historical tapestry that defines Rome.

    The 3669th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. The Marble Faun by Nathaniel Hawthorne

    The novel is a dark romantic tale set in 19th-century Italy that follows the intertwined lives of four characters: the innocent Miriam, the contemplative Kenyon, the charming Donatello, and the mysterious Hilda. As they explore art, love, and the nature of sin, a tragic event involving a mysterious crime at a Roman villa leads to a profound transformation in each of their lives. The story delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the moral complexities of the human soul, all against the backdrop of Italy's rich cultural heritage and the enigmatic presence of the titular marble faun, a statue that symbolizes the intersection of the divine and the mortal.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. On The Ends Of Good And Evil by Marcus Tullius Cicero

    "On the Ends of Good and Evil" is a philosophical work that explores the ethical theories of Hellenistic schools, including Stoicism, Epicureanism, and the Peripatetic tradition. Through a series of dialogues, the text delves into the nature of happiness and the ultimate end of human action, examining what constitutes the highest good. The author critiques and compares the doctrines of these schools, ultimately defending the Stoic view that virtue is the sole basis of happiness and the ultimate goal in life, while also acknowledging valuable insights from other philosophical traditions.

    The 4688th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. How We Live by Rust Hills

    "How We Live" is a collection of essays that explore the various aspects of human life. The author delves into topics such as love, death, work, and leisure, offering insightful and often humorous commentary. Through his reflections, the author attempts to answer the fundamental question of what it means to be human and how our daily actions and choices shape our existence.

    The 5738th Greatest Book of All Time

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