Sallust was one of the first classical historians to move beyond a dry
recitation of fact to paint sharp-edged portraits of the moral and
political degeneration of the Roman Republic. Sallust's abrupt and
distinctive style is the perfect vehicle for his moral urgency, bitter
condemnation, and satirical cynicism. William W. Batstone's new
translation, which includes the fragmentary Histories, captures the
severity of his Latin style. Catiline's Conspiracy describes the
bloody rebellion led by the depraved and disaffected Catiline. For
Sallust it was especially disturbing because of the unprecedented nature
of the crime and the danger it caused. The Jugurthine War offers a
graphic depiction of the war against the king of Numidia, highlighting
the power struggles in Rome and the brutal battles in Africa. A
wide-ranging introduction sets Sallust and his works in their turbulent
historical context, and considers their achievements as both history and
literature. Batstone also provides
shorter introductions to each of the three works as well as
comprehensive notes, an up-to-date bibliography, and maps of the
Mediterranean, Italy, and Africa.
About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has
made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the
globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to
scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other
valuable features, including expert introductions by leading
authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date
bibliographies for further study, and much more.
