As the sub-title indicates, this massive study is conducted at a high level of literary theory; it begins with ‘medieval’ examples and extends into the early modern period, and it seeks both to engage deeply with the authors considered and to consider the implications for the theoretical aspects of the ‘reception’ of the historical writings of Sallust (and some other ancient historians). This is done at great length and with considerable repetitiveness.

There is a long introduction on the workings of post-antique Latin literature. Then four authors are considered in detail: Gerald of Wales (Giraldus Cambrensis), Expugnatio Hibernica (thirteenth century); Bruno von Merseburg, Saxonicum Bellum (eleventh century); Rahewin, Gesta Friderici, Books 3–4 (twelfth century), a continuation of the work of his leader, Otto of Freising; and Famiano Strada, Bellum Belgicum (seventeenth century). The sections on Bruno and on Strada are far longer than the others, and there are many cross-references and repetitions between all of them. The discussion of Strada’s work is preceded by a detailed and helpful assessment of the effects of the Renaissance, of the discovery of new texts and of printing. The work closes with a brief concluding chapter. Where appropriate, there are side-by-side comparisons of texts from Sallust (and others) and the post-antique author, and all Latin texts are carefully translated.

Among the elements traced to Sallustian influence are these: the focus on a historical work as a monograph on a particular war; the focus on a heroic or villainous leader; the theme of civil war; the composition of direct speeches; the use of character-portraits and of detailed comparison/contrast (synkrisis) of two leading figures; the use of digression (excursus); the presence of ancient rhetorical figures and principles in the organisation and interpretation of historical events; and the reflection of ancient Roman political circumstances and ideas in recounting later histories. While some of the identification of individual Latin words or combinations of words may be questionable as coming directly or indirectly from Sallust or another writer, it seems beyond question that the traits just summarised are, as B. says in the conclusion, necessary to be taken fully into account in the study of the historical works after antiquity. The authors were in fact writing history ‘with Sallust’ in more than one way.

This book in its own way makes a significant contribution to Sallustian reception studies.