The Decline & Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon-Hardcover- 3 Vols set. Modern Library Giant.

"The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire" is a seminal work of history written by Edward Gibbon, first published in six volumes between 1776 and 1788. It covers the history of the Roman Empire from the height of its power in the 2nd century AD to its fall in the West in the 5th century AD and continued existence in the East as the Byzantine Empire.

Gibbon's work spans over a millennium, covering the rise, peak, and eventual decline of the Roman Empire. It explores political, social, cultural, and religious factors contributing to these developments.

Gibbon attributes the decline of Rome to several interrelated factors, including:

• Internal Decay: Corruption, political instability, and economic problems.
• Barbarian Invasions: Pressure from external forces such as Germanic tribes.
• Religious Transformation: The rise of Christianity and its impact on Roman society.
• Critique of Christianity: Gibbon controversially portrays the rise of Christianity as a contributor to Rome's decline, arguing that it weakened traditional Roman values and contributed to social fragmentation.

Narrative Style: Gibbon's writing is characterized by its erudition, wit, and a narrative weaving historical analysis together with philosophical reflection. He draws upon a vast array of primary and secondary sources, providing a comprehensive view of the era.

Legacy: "The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire" remains highly influential in the study of history and has shaped subsequent interpretations of Rome's collapse. It reflects Enlightenment-era skepticism and rationalism, challenging traditional narratives of historical inevitability.

Criticism: Some historians have challenged Gibbon's interpretation of Christianity's role and have argued for alternative explanations for Rome's decline.

In summary, Edward Gibbon's "The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire" remains a monumental work in the field of history, offering a complex and nuanced analysis of one of the most significant periods in Western civilization.

Product Details

• Publisher: Modern Library Giant
• Language: English
• Format: Hardcover with Dust Jackets
• Volume One: 956 pages
• Volume Two: 923 pages
• Volume Three: 898
• Dimensions: 8 x 6 x 2 inches (each volume)
• Condition: Good
• Dust Jacket Good with minor wear, see Pictures Gallery.

 The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon is a must-have for history enthusiasts and collectors alike.  This timeless work was widely praised for its erudition, scholarship, and literary style. It received acclaim from figures like David Hume and Adam Smith, who admired Gibbon's analytical approach and narrative skill.

Gibbon's work has profoundly influenced the study of Roman history and historiography. It shaped subsequent interpretations of the Roman Empire and its decline, even as modern scholarship has offered new perspectives and critiques.