Domina
“Domina” by Guy De la Bédoyère is an illustrated history published by Yale University Press in January 2018. This 385-page book explores the influential roles of the Julio-Claudian women in shaping the early Roman Empire, highlighting figures such as Livia, Octavia, and Agrippina. The author, a prominent scholar, presents a detailed account of how these women’s bloodlines, ambition, and actions were crucial to the continuation of the emperors’ lineage, challenging the traditional focus on male rulers like Augustus and Nero.
Readers will find a thorough examination of the interplay between gender and power in ancient Rome, as de la Bédoyère utilizes ancient sources to provide a fresh perspective on this historical period. The book delves into the dynamics of dynastic politics, revealing how these women operated behind the scenes to influence the course of history. With its focus on women’s studies and biography, “Domina” offers a unique lens on the social structures of the time, making it a significant contribution to the understanding of ancient history.
Official synopsis Publisher
A captivating popular history that shines a light on the notorious Julio-Claudian women who forged an empire
Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius, and Nero–these are the names history associates with the early Roman Empire. Yet, not a single one of these emperors was the blood son of his predecessor. In this captivating history, a prominent scholar of the era documents the Julio-Claudian women whose bloodline, ambition, and ruthlessness made it possible for the emperors’ line to continue.
Eminent scholar Guy de la Bédoyère, author of Praetorian, asserts that the women behind the scenes–including Livia, Octavia, and the elder and younger Agrippina–were the true backbone of the dynasty. De la Bédoyère draws on the accounts of ancient Roman historians to revisit a familiar time from a completely fresh vantage point. Anyone who enjoys I, Claudius will be fascinated by this study of dynastic power and gender interplay in ancient Rome.
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Domina” about?
Who is the author of “Domina”?
When was “Domina” published?
What is the ISBN for “Domina”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
