Julian

“When we think of ancient Rome, it’s impossible not to think of Christianity, one of its most notable exports—but what if it hadn’t been? This is the question provoked by classicist Philip Freeman in Julian, an appealing new entry in Yale’s Ancient Lives series, which tells the story of the old faith’s last imperial torchbearer.”—Anna Heyward, New York Times Book Review “Professor Freeman’s meticulous, unsentimental portrait removes all this varnish and restores a clearer image of a tragic figure.”—Rupert Christiansen, The Telegraph “Philip Freeman’s slender account is an excellent primer on Julian and sets the context for his arrival on the throne well.”—Jack Watkins, Country Life “This new biography of Julian, who made bold to deny the newly crowned Christian God, by experienced historian Philip Freeman comes as a very welcome addition to the literature on a prolific author whose imperial reach unfortunately exceeded his grasp.”—Paul Cartledge, University of Cambridge