Iron Imperator : Roman Grand Strategy Under Tiberius

Explores the persona of Tiberius in a nuanced portrayal of this overlooked emperor and his exile, revealing a complex character with historical significance.

One of the most enigmatic figures of antiquity, Tiberius lacked the imperial splendour of his great predecessor Augustus and the excesses of many of his successors, and has been overlooked by history. Yet this compelling study offers a portrait of a complex and contradictory man, both emperor and exile, tyrant and recluse. Drawing on a wealth of ancient sources as well as contemporary classical scholarship, Iskander Rehman engages in a nuanced and multidisciplinary examination of Tiberius’s philosophical, intellectual and military influences, and the effectiveness of his foreign policy. Analysing key conflicts, Rehman evaluates the reach and efficacy of Rome’s grand strategy, applying the lessons of the past to contemporary security challenges and modern global defence policy. The book has a preface written by Sir Peter Stothard, British author, journalist and critic.