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> In fact, it is advisable to read several more recent works on Roman history first, I think that's the wrong way around. Start with reading the canon, and the
by trgn 3y ago
> In fact, it is advisable to read several more recent works on Roman history first,
I think that's the wrong way around. Start with reading the canon, and then delve into its refinements (schools get that all twisted too, only introducing cannon at the graduate level). Reading Gibbon will give you a deep appreciation of his influence. In the process, you'll get a genuine step closer to experience the Enlightenment (imagine yourself in your salon, by candlelight, a gaggle of kids playing in the room next to you) as well.
_Especially_ so if you are reading out of a dilettante interest, rather than professionally.
- consilient 3y ago> Reading Gibbon will give you a deep appreciation of his influence. In the process, you'll get a genuine step closer to experience the Enlightenment (imagine yourself in your salon, by candlelight, a gaggle of kids playing in the room next to you) as well. That's all well and good, but OP seems to be interested in learning about Roman history, not 18th century English historiography. And for those purposes Gibbon is extremely unreliable.
- trgn 3y agoReading gibbon will leave you well educated on roman history.