Hadrian, an emperor in his last illness, writes to the young Marcus Aurelius to explain who he was. He describes his Spanish childhood, his service in the army, how he became emperor, his travels through the provinces, his passion for Greek culture and for the youth Antinous, and the decisions he made to keep the empire at peace. The book is invented as an autobiography, shaped by Yourcenar's deep study of sources.
It is for readers who like reflective historical novels with a literary style. It suits those who are drawn to portraits of power, desire and mortality in the ancient world.
Deep, inward-looking, contemplative and thought-provoking; a moderate read.
Best for readers like The Wisdom Collector. Which reader are you?
- Published
- 2001
- Publisher
- Folio
- ISBN
- 9782070369218
- Language
- FR
