The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire Volume 1 is a comprehensive and detailed account of the fall of the Roman Empire, written by the renowned historian Edward Gibbon. The book covers the period from the end of the reign of the Emperor Augustus to the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century AD. Gibbon's work is considered a masterpiece of historical writing, and is renowned for its depth of research, detailed analysis, and elegant prose. The book is divided into six volumes, with the first volume covering the early history of the Roman Empire, from its foundation to the reign of Constantine the Great. Throughout the book, Gibbon explores the political, social, and cultural factors that contributed to the decline of the Roman Empire, including the rise of Christianity, the invasions of barbarian tribes, and the corruption and decadence of the ruling elite. He also examines the impact of key historical figures, such as Julius Caesar, Augustus, and Constantine, on the history of the Roman Empire. The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire Volume 1 is a seminal work of historical scholarship, and remains an essential read for anyone interested in the history of the Roman Empire or the decline of great civilizations.Yet Commodus was not, as he has been represented, a tiger born with an insatiate thirst of human blood, and capable, from his infancy, of the most inhuman actions. Nature had formed him of a weak rather than a wicked disposition. His simplicity and timidity rendered him the slave of his attendants, who gradually corrupted his mind. His cruelty, which at first obeyed the dictates of others, degenerated into habit, and at length became the ruling passion of his soul.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.