Cassius Dio
Abstract
This chapter presents selections from Cassius Dio’s vast Roman History , the most extensive surviving narrative written in Greek of Rome from its legendary origins to the Severan age. A senator and imperial insider, Dio portrays the fall of Antony and Cleopatra, Octavian’s rise, and a fictional debate between Agrippa and Maecenas on monarchy versus republicanism that reflects later Roman views of imperial rule. Excerpts also trace imperial succession from Nerva to Commodus, offering insight into Dio’s vision of strong central authority as the guarantor of peace and order.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Classical Antiquity Studies
Classical Philosophy and Thought
Classical Studies and Philology
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 527–560
- Publication date
- 3 March 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter