A solid, framework for further reading in the field of mostly Mediterranean history. We have here political history from Theodosius II to Maurice, with a good emphasis on North Africa and the near East, as well as Europe. The sections on Architecture and Religion are a little jargon heavy. One does get fairly lively prose, so it reads pretty well. Spoiler alert: the Western Empire falls! This is the new edition revised for 2000 CE. ( )