The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, Volume I

It is almost impossible to overstate the indispensability of this intellectual tour de force. It is socially critical. To be sure, Gibbon bequeathed a lamp unto the future, a vital social gyroscope that the savant will treasure.The profundity of his erudition is almost inexhaustible yet fascinating and, therefore, perpetually entertaining with nuance and subtlety. It is alive and robust. His words alight and flash with power.Furthermore, Gibbon's stimulating ability to synthesize a vast library of knowledge into a seamless thread of logic is a rarefied and soothing elixir to thinking men.Yet, suppose we frame this glorious word painting with gold-gilded baroque flourishes accenting Gibbon's masterful thoughts. That is what distinguished vocalist David Timson did precisely. His rich, savvy voice and articulation, matched with perfect timing and inflection, honor this mighty work as, perhaps, no other reader could.Those who wish to awaken and refresh their cognitive skills while listening to one of the most vital stories of the human pageant will be thoroughly entertained and pleased.

Great audio version.