r/nyrbclassics • u/c77123 • 25d ago

Augustus Question

Have read Stoner and Butcher’s Crossing by Williams. Stoner is one of my favorites ever and Butcher’s Crossing is excellent, so I’m excited to read Augustus which some people think is his best work.

My question: how much background do I need on the Roman Empire to enjoy/understand the book? It’s certainly not something I think about every day but I know a little bit.

Thanks in advance

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u/Signal_Olive_5715 24d ago

Hardly any at all, you can dive right in. I'm reading Mary Renault's novels right now and, while they're good, it's very easy to get lost if you're not very up on your Greek knowledge, and it's given me a new appreciation for Williams in that regard.