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The Grass Crown

Book 2 in the series:Masters of Rome

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The Grass Crown is the second book in the 'Masters of Rome' series by Colleen McCullough. The novel continues the story of Gaius Marius and Lucius Cornelius Sulla, exploring their rise and fall amidst the political turmoil of ancient Rome. The book weaves a complex and detailed world, focusing on historical accuracy while bringing to life various key figures such as Julius Caesar in his youth. The narrative delves into the political intrigues, military campaigns, and personal relationships of these legendary characters, set against the backdrop of the ancient Roman Republic.

The Grass Crown is praised for its meticulous research and recreation of the ancient Roman world, providing readers with a deep dive into the political and social life of the era. McCullough's writing style is engaging, combining historical accuracy with plausible characterization and storylines that bring the characters to life. The book is commended for its ability to transport readers to ancient Rome, offering a mix of history, intrigue, and compelling storytelling that keeps readers immersed in the narrative.

Characters:

Characters are deeply complex, often morally ambiguous, showcasing a range of motivations and personal struggles.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is intricate and heavily detailed, aiming to recreate the historical context while developing multifaceted characters.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on the escalating conflict between Gaius Marius and Lucius Cornelius Sulla, illustrating their power struggles amidst the chaotic political landscape of the Roman Republic.

Setting:

The setting is richly detailed, capturing the tumultuous climate of the late Roman Republic and its socio-political issues.

Pacing:

The pacing fluctuates between slow and fast, often bogged down by intricate details and lengthy dialogue.
Aelia’s face lit up. “Wasn’t it wonderful?” she asked, leaning forward in her chair to reach the dish of huge green olives imported from Further Spain. “To be able to stand on its back legs and walk! ...

Notes:

The Grass Crown continues the story where The First Man of Rome left off, covering the years 97 BC to 86 BC.
Key characters include Gaius Marius, Lucius Cornelius Sulla, and the young Julius Caesar.
Marius and Sulla, initially allies, become rivals vying for power in Rome's Senate.
Sulla is awarded the Grass Crown, the highest military honor, while Marius remains popular with the masses.
The book depicts the political corruption and social strife of the Roman Republic.
Rome faces chaos as generals and thugs influence political outcomes.
For the first time, an army marches into Rome, creating a state of siege.
The story includes themes of loyalty purchased through marriage and wealth, highlighting the corruption of the aristocracy.
Characters are complex, lacking a clear good vs. evil dichotomy, especially Marius and Sulla.
Young Caesar is portrayed as a gifted child, foreshadowing his future greatness.
The book examines the rise of populism and the struggles of the Roman lower classes against the wealthy.
Historical events, such as the Halian War and Mithridates' interactions, are integral to the plot.
Colleen McCullough's writing depicts a vivid picture of Roman society and its intricate political landscape.
The series challenges the reader to understand the nuances of Roman legality and governance.
Overall, The Grass Crown is noted for its intricate details and character development, despite some lengthy passages.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include depictions of violence, political assassinations, and discussions of warfare, making it medium in terms of sensitivity.

From The Publisher:

New York Times bestselling author Colleen McCullough returns us to an age of magnificent triumphs, volcanic passions, and barbaric cruelties.

Throughout the Western world, great kingdoms have fallen and despots lay crushed beneath the heels of Rome's advancing legions. But now internal rebellion threatens the stability of the mighty Republic. An aging, ailing Gaius Marius, heralded conqueror of Germany and Numidia, longs for that which was prophesied many years before: an unprecedented seventh consulship of Rome. It is a prize to be won only through treachery and with blood, pitting Marius against a new generation of assassins, power-seekers, and Senate intriguers-and setting him at odds with the ambitious, tormented Lucius Cornelius Sulla, once Marius's most trusted right-hand man, now his most dangerous rival.

Ratings (3)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (2)

Reader Stats (7):

Read It (3)
Want To Read (3)
Not Interested (1)

About the Author:

Colleen McCullough was born in Australia. A neurophysiologist, she established the department of neurophysiology at the Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney, then worked as a researcher and teacher at Yale Medical School for ten years. Her writing career began with the publication of Tim, followed by The Thorn Birds, a record-breaking international bestseller. The author of over ten other novels, including the acclaimed 'Masters of Rome' series, Dr McCullough also wrote lyrics for musical theatre. Until her death in 2015 she lived on Norfolk Island in the Pacific with her husband.

 
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