Hadrian: The Restless Emperor (Roman Imperial Biographies)

Although his decision to abandon the expansionist policies of his predecessors seemed to forecast the Roman Empire's decline, this evenhanded biography demonstrates that Hadrian (A.D. 76-138) was also an intelligent, energetic ruler. With equal judiciousness ancient historian Anthony R. Birley scrutinizes Hadrian's private life--including an unhappy marriage and a devoted homosexual attachment--and his public works, from Britain's monumental wall to the disastrous attempt to Hellenize his Jewish subjects. Birley makes good use of primary sources and academic monographs to create a scholarly yet accessible narrative.