Exploring the role of intelligence in statecraft, this book delves into the methods employed by the Romans to safeguard their empire. It examines the strategies and practices that facilitated effective surveillance, information gathering, and counterintelligence, highlighting their significance in maintaining security and stability throughout Roman territories. Through historical analysis, it reveals how these intelligence activities were crucial for the empire's longevity and governance.
The book explores contrasting images of warfare in Greek history through the figures of Achilles and Odysseus. Achilles embodies the ideal of direct, honorable combat and is appalled by deceit in battle, while Odysseus represents a cunning approach, valuing stealth and strategy over brute strength. This examination highlights the complexities of Greek warrior culture and the differing philosophies of heroism and morality in warfare as depicted in Homeric epics.
Focusing on the Flavian emperors, the narrative delves into Vespasian's strategies for navigating a treacherous political landscape marked by high assassination rates among rulers. It highlights his efforts to stabilize Rome after civil war, secure his reign, and ensure the continuation of his dynasty through his sons, Titus and Domitian. The book provides insights into the complexities of power dynamics and the challenges of leadership in ancient Rome.
Exploring the history of internal security under the first Roman dynasty, this book answers the enduring question: If there were nine thousand men guarding the emperor, why did Rome have the highest rate of assassination of any world empire? Sheldon concludes that the repeated problem of killing Caesar reflected the empire's larger dynamics and turmoil.