Julian

Book Specification

ISBN: 9780349147147

Pages: 544

Book Cover: Paperback

Book Overview

Julian is a masterful historical novel by Gore Vidal, chronicling the life and reign of Julian the Apostate, one of Rome’s most fascinating and controversial emperors. A brilliant blend of politics, philosophy, and religion, this bestseller is considered one of Vidal’s greatest literary achievements.

Julian, the nephew of Constantine the Great, rose to power in the fourth century and made it his mission to revive paganism and halt the spread of Christianity. A military genius comparable to Caesar and Alexander, Julian was also a scholar and philosopher, deeply devoted to the classical gods of Hellenism.

Highlights:

A vivid portrayal of ancient Rome’s political and religious upheaval

An intimate psychological study of a ruler driven by idealism and intellect

A richly imagined and historically grounded narrative filled with wit and drama

A compelling examination of power, belief, and rebellion

Despite ruling for only four years, Julian left a legacy of bold ideas and compassionate governance—before his untimely and suspicious death at just 32.

“Gore Vidal, a writer of lustrous and fabulously readable prose, was always ahead of his time.” — Stephen Fry

Julian is more than a novel—it is a vivid reimagining of classical antiquity and a powerful meditation on faith, empire, and individual conviction.