eLearning Promotion with Dr. Matyzsak
August 29, 2007
We are happy to announce that eLearning from Cambridge University is reducing the costs for two Unrv.com readers on their latest online course “Ancient Rome, the City, Society and Infrastructure” with Professor Philip Matyzsak by 50% off the published rates!
Dr. Matyzsak is the accomplished author of “Chronicle of the Roman Republic”, “Enemies of Rome” and “Sons of Caesar”. Additionally, we will be giving away two of his most recent publication, the acclaimed “Ancient Rome on Five Denarii a Day”.
All you have to do is reply to promotion@unrv.com that you are interested in the online course (and the lucky draw for the book) and we’ll give you the promotional code to get the discounted price. But hurry, the course starts on the 17th of September and only the first two will get the discount! For more information on the online course see the official site!
Spartacus DVD Review
August 17, 2007
As a departure from reviews of historical literature, community member "Ursus" has delved into a classic film of the Hollywood era of epics...
A young and ambitious Kirk Douglas apparently did not care to lose the title role of Ben-Hur to Charlton Heston. On the policy that outdoing rivals is the best revenge, Douglas plotted a new project. A best selling novel on a Roman slave revolt, light on history but heavy on drama, was written into a screenplay by a writer blacklisted as a Communist sympathizer. A nearly all-star cast was assembled, which included Laurence Olivier (who reputedly thought he would perform better in the title role than Douglas, and only grudgingly excepted a secondary role). The original director of the project was fired, and in his place was brought the artistic Stanley Kubrick (whose eye for dehumanization clashed with Doug' humanism). The Spanish army was enlisted to ape Roman legionaries, and an epic score was composed to bring orchestral notes. The result, whether foreseen or not, was one of the best films Hollywood ever produced. But it is not about history, and never was...
Read the full review of Spartacus DVD
New Essay Contest
August 09, 2007
Continuing in the tradition of past contests, UNRV is excited to announce a new writing contest for August/September.
This will be a non-fiction historical essay writing contest.
Prizes are gift certificates to Amazon.com or .co.uk (or any other regional extension based on preference of the winner) in the amounts of US$75 for 1st, $50 for 2nd and $25 for 3rd. Please follow the link for contest information and details
Ancient Rome on Five Denarii a Day
August 05, 2007
Another review has been submitted by community member "Ursus"...
Many Romanophile books are quite informative, and some are even enjoyable enough to read. Rarely are they simply as fun as hell.
So... you live somewhere in the backwater provinces of the Roman Empire, and you must visit the Eternal City for the first time for business or pleasure (or both, if you're savvy enough)? The imperial capitol holds many promises of profit and adventure, but one misstep could mean a social faux pas, a breach of the Praetor's law, or perhaps even a quick journey to the underworld courtesy of a brigand. If only there were a handy traveler's guide to counsel the would-be visitor to the Eternal City. Wait no more, my friend, for one has been provided for you...
Read the full review of Ancient Rome on Five Denarii a Day by Phillip Matyszak.
