The Histories
Ukemi Audiobooks presents 'The Histories' by Polybius, translated by W. R. Paton. The audiobook provides a detailed account of Rome's rise to power, overcoming the Carthaginian Empire and subjugating the city states of Greece. Polybius, a Greek historian, offers a firsthand perspective and includes historical background, conflicts, battles, diplomacy, and key personalities. The narrative covers a century of continuous warfare, brutal times of torture and slaughter, as well as examples of honorable engagement and diplomacy. With engaging authority, Jonathan Booth narrates the unabridged version of 'The Histories,' supported by additional material and an extensive PDF. The audiobook is a comprehensive resource for understanding Rome's ascendance to empire. (summary max length: 150 words)
Description
Audiobook: The Histories
How did the city state of Rome rise inexorably to become the dominant power in the Mediterranean and much of the Western world? In short, first of all it overcame the established Carthaginian Empire despite the remarkable exploits of Hannibal. And, largely at the same time, it gradually subjugated the many and varied city states of Greece, despite various allied opposition.
The rise of Rome is one of the great stories of world history, and fortunately, we have a reliable and at times an eyewitness account, from the Greek historian Polybius of Megalopolis (c200 BCE-c117 BCE). In The Histories, Polybius set out to present as full an account as he could, with the historical background, the causes of disagreement leading to conflict, the main naval and land battles and the acts of heroism, cowardice, imagination and folly. In addition, he provided lucid explanations of the diplomacy, the treaties and portraits of the main personalities. He encompassed the whole story in 40 books, a considerable undertaking. He started his tale in 264 BCE as Rome challenged Carthage and concluded with the capture of Corinth in 146 BCE. It is a century (and more) of almost continuous conflict in one field or another.
These were brutal times of torture, slaughter, enslavement, where power was wielded for dominance, but there were examples of honourable engagement and considered diplomacy. Extended periods of warfare brought new military ideas and tactics, as Rome learned to combat Carthaginian expertise on sea and on land. Siege machinery was developed on both sides (the skills of Archimedes in the defence of Syracuse is mentioned) and the famous Greek phalanx was pitted against the Roman legions.
Polybius reports on the main confrontations with the authority of a man who was present at many events and also visited historic sites of importance to ensure his accounts of the past were accurate. In The Histories, he gives rounded portraits of the important figures of Hannibal and other Carthaginian generals: of Scipio Africanus (who finally stopped Hannibal at the Battle of Zama) and other Roman general, of Philip V of Macedon, of Antiochus the Great, ruler of the Seleucid Empire and of the Ptolemies of Egypt.
The rise of Rome is a story of two main arenas - the West (Carthage, Spain, Northern Italy and Illyria) and the East - Greece! In trying to maintain some kind of chronological flow, Polybius has little option but to switch the focus from one to another, sometimes at short notice! This problem is exacerbated by the fact that The Histories has survived only in part. The first five books exist in full. Most of book six, with its important review of the Roman constitution and military system, has also survived. Of the rest we have fragments of varying lengths (though nothing for books 17, 19, 37, 40). This makes for some challenging moments as ‘chapters’ can switch from one focus to another at a swift pace, especially with the way the vivid reports and analysis from Polybius maintain the thrust of the narrative.
Ukemi Audiobooks here presents, for the first time on audio, the unabridged Polybius - everything that has survived - in the excellent translation by W. R. Paton. There is additional material too. It opens with 'The Life of Polybius' by H. J. Edwards. And it closes with the classic survey of Polybius and his work by Evelyn S. Shuckburgh, which includes 'The Sources of Polybius’ History' and an overview of 'The Achaean League' which played a key role in events in Greece. The whole production is supported by an extensive PDF, with key dates, personalities and events in order. There are also maps, which give visual clarity to the challenging geographical progress of Rome as it moved inexorably towards Empire.
The Histories is read with engaging authority by Jonathan Booth. PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio. Public Domain (P)2021 Ukemi Productions Ltd
Writer: Polybius, W. R. Paton - translator
Publisher: Ukemi Audiobooks from W. F. Howes Ltd
Additional Info
| Book Name: | The Histories |
|---|---|
| Book Format: | AudiobookFormat |
| Authors: | PolybiusW. R. Paton - translator |
| Narrators: | Jonathan Booth |
| Genres: | History |
| Audiobook Length: | 37H38M |
| Publisher: | Ukemi Audiobooks from W. F. Howes Ltd |
| Language: | English |
| Publish Date: | 2021-10-05 |
| Last Price: | 14.95 USD |
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Reviews
13 reviews for this audiobook
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This audiobook is an absolute gem! The narration is engaging and the translation by W. R. Paton is top-notch. I couldn't believe how seamlessly I was transported back in time through Polybius' captivating accounts. Highly recommended!
The Histories is a must-listen for history enthusiasts. The narrator brings the ancient world to life, and W. R. Paton's translation makes the content easily accessible. I found myself completely engrossed in the stories and couldn't stop listening. Fantastic job by Ukemi Audiobooks!
If you're a fan of ancient history, this audiobook is a treasure trove. Polybius' work is a masterpiece, and the narration enhances the experience. I felt like I was right there witnessing the events unfold. Highly recommended for those seeking a deep dive into the past.
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to The Histories. The narrator's voice is captivating, and the translation is clear and concise. It's a fascinating journey through the ancient world, and I couldn't help but get lost in the stories. Well done!
This audiobook is a delightful way to immerse yourself in ancient history. The narrator's delivery is superb, and the translation by W. R. Paton is excellent. It's like taking a time machine back to the ancient times. A fantastic listen!
The Histories is a fascinating audiobook that offers a unique perspective on ancient events. The narrator's voice is soothing and keeps you engaged throughout. W. R. Paton's translation is masterful, making it accessible to a wide audience. Highly recommended for history buffs!
I was completely captivated by The Histories. The narrator's voice is dynamic and filled with emotion, making the ancient tales come alive. The translation is excellent, and the overall production quality is top-notch. It's like having a history lesson and a thrilling adventure at the same time. Wonderful!
The Histories audiobook is a true gem for history lovers. The narrator's delivery is impeccable, and the translation is clear and concise. It's like stepping into the shoes of ancient people and witnessing their struggles and triumphs. A fantastic narration!
I can't recommend The Histories enough! The narrator's voice is mesmerizing, and the translation by W. R. Paton is superb. It's a gripping tale that gives you a glimpse into the ancient world. I couldn't press the pause button! Well worth a listen.
The Histories audiobook is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. The narrator's voice is enchanting, and the translation by W. R. Paton is excellent. I felt like I was traveling back in time and experiencing the events firsthand. A must-listen!
The Histories is a phenomenal audiobook that brings ancient history to life. The narrator's expressive voice and W. R. Paton's translation make it a joy to listen to. I was completely engrossed in the stories and couldn't stop listening. Highly recommend for history lovers!
Listening to The Histories was a fantastic experience. The narrator's voice is captivating, and the translation is excellent. It's like delving into a thrilling adventure through the past. Highly recommended for anyone interested in ancient history!
The Histories audiobook is a masterpiece. The narrator's voice is perfect for the content, and the translation by W. R. Paton is impeccable. It's like having a personal guide to the ancient world. I couldn't put it down!