Rome Resurgent: War and Empire in the Age of Justinian (Ancient Warfare and Civilization) explores the remarkable era of Emperor Justinian (527-568), who dominated the Mediterranean region between the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the fifth century and the collapse of the East to Arab invasions in the seventh. Known for his conquests in Italy and North Africa, as well as the creation of monumental structures such as the Hagia Sophia, Justinian’s reign was marked by global religious conflict within Christianity and an outbreak of plague that some compare to the Black Death.

For historians, Justinian is not just a figure of Byzantine ambition between Attila and Muhammad but the causal link binding these two moments of Roman imperial collapse. Determined to reverse fifth-century losses, he launched aggressive campaigns despite formidable challenges, including the plague. This book offers a fresh interpretation of his conquest policy and its strategic effects, often viewed as imperial overreach, which made the regime vulnerable to Islamic conquests in the seventh century.

Historian Peter Heather’s work delves into contemporary sources like Procopius, while integrating new perspectives based on extensive additional material. A vast body of archaeological evidence from the sixth century provides fresh insights into the overall impacts of Justinian’s war policies. Heather also offers a more comprehensive look at Rome’s enemies than Procopius did, combining this with his expertise in studying Vandals, Goths, and Persians.

The narrative is briskly paced, offering readers an engaging exploration of this crucial period in ancient history, making it a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike.