The Emperor Hadrian was arguably the first classicist, captivated by a classical past and society he could already identify as something apart. In this one-volume history of the ancient world up to his death, Robin Lane Fox traces the development of classical civilisation from its origins in the 9th century BC to the height of the Roman Empire. Over this period the classical world bore witness to many dramatic changes, and this is a lively introduction to its highest points and a riveting exploration of evolving views of luxury, justice and freedom. This book would have been an invaluable guide for the Roman Emperor as he toured his domains, as it is now for the many who share his fascination with the ancient world, its history, culture, and civilisation. Few historians are able to write about the broad sweep of ancient history with such depth of sympathetic understanding, or to communicate its appeal and significance so vividly, but with this book Lane Fox succeeds brilliantly....