Josephus as historian

[Gaivs Antonivs Satvrninvs]

Hi,all,
After checking the "indespensible books" list I was wondering
what opinion was held on [amazon]Josephus[/amazon] "the Jewish Wars" ?
I noticed it was not on the list.
I thought before buying a copy I would check my most critically
reliable source-RAT members.
Thanks.

[Narukami]

Greetings.

I would think The Jewish Wars would be an absolute must for the bookshelf, understanding of course that Josephus had patrons (like Vespasian and Titus) to please and a personal position (Jewish rebel leader becomes Roman historian) to justify.

Even so, he is one of the only sources, and a contemporary one at that, for the Jewish War in general and the Siege of Jerusalem in particular thus he must be read, with caution perhaps, but read all the same.

No doubt other members can recommend additional books about this important war that are worthy of consideration.

Narukami

[Caius Fabius]

I like this translation [amazon] 0913573868 [/amazon]
and is the complete Josephus, has information on Marc Antony and J Caesar as well as the Jewish Wars.

[Alexandr K]

Hi,
here you can find some scholarly studies about Josephus with Greek text and English translation of his works (and much more :wink: ).
Greetings
Alexandr

[D B Campbell]

What a fantastic resource, Alexandr.

I have often lamented Polybius' absence from the internet, but there he is! Not only that, but Shuckburgh's wonderful translation is there, too.
And -- the icing on the cake -- Walbank's indispensible commentary, used here under licence from OUP.
(Not to mention Josephus! )

Thanks!

[TraderTrey9785]

If you're looking for a good translation, I've heard the one by Whiston is the best, and I'm currently using it for a term paper. Amazon has it really cheap if you're interested.

Best of luck!

[Virgil]

Hi,all,
After checking the "indespensible books" list I was wondering
what opinion was held on [amazon]Josephus[/amazon] "the Jewish Wars" ?
I noticed it was not on the list.
I thought before buying a copy I would check my most critically
reliable source-RAT members.
Thanks.

Josephus' Jewish Wars offer incredible insights into the Roman army, it's organization and even weaknesses. It's a great eyewitness account and while you have to keep in mind Josephus knows where his bread is being buttered, it's still immensely rewarding for anyone interested in the Roman army.

___
Frank

[Gaivs Antonivs Satvrninvs]

Thanks to everyone who took time to reply.
However, after reading the replies I'm still not sure.
Essential reading? ok
Disregard everything Josephus says about himself.
Take most with a grain of salt.
Obviously, in another thread there are those who
consider him "full of it " and makes me wonder.
I still would like to read" the Jewish War" but may
opt for an online version.
Having read Caesar's accounts of Gaul and civil wars
I mostly remember facts and little of his self promotion
so I think I can do the same with Josephus.
(does his name remind anyone else of Mel Brooks'
History of the World-pt 1)? Ethiopian shim-sham!

[tlclark]

Andy,

I would say, YES, essential reading, but recognize he is very pro-Titus and Vespasian and makes them and their motives look better than they probably were. Books 5,6,& 7 are the most interesting - IMO.

Travis