The Empire at High Tide

During the second century CE, the Roman Empire reached its zenith in power and territorial extent under the reigns of five 'good' emperors: Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, Antonius Pius, and Marcus Aurelius. This period marked significant expansion, with Trajan adding Dacia and Mesopotamia to the empire's domain. However, it also witnessed increasing instability, including prolonged conflicts along the Danube frontier and debilitating wars with Parthia. The study highlights the adverse impact of the Antonine Plague on the empire's fabric, underscoring a critical juncture in its history where prosperity coexisted with mounting challenges.

Lacey, J. (2022). The Empire at High Tide. Rome, 142–C10. https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780190937706.003.0011