IN THE SHADOW OF THE GODS

A sweeping survey of the evolution of the role of the emperor in terms of geopolitical leadership, empire building, and diplomacy.

Moving chronologically from ancient times in Mesopotamia to the present, Lieven, a former professor of Russian studies at the London School of Economics and winner of the Wolfson History Prize, focuses on memorable monarchs as they evolved in their roles. Dynasties such as the Chinese, Mughal, and Ottoman were never efficient or meritocratic, yet despite the “self-evidently flawed system” of hereditary monarchy, it managed to survive as “by far the most prevalent type of polity in history.” As the author delineates, the “sacred monarchies” of the Near East—e.g., in ancient Egypt—were most closely aligned with divinity, while for subsequent empires (Persia, Rome), the rulers had to demonstrate exemplary military and political skills—e.g., Alexander and Hadrian. The enduring blueprint of dynastic style, notes Lieven, dictated that the ruler was backed by an inner circle of sycophantic functionaries dependent on his largesse—and willing to tell him what he wanted to hear. (Though largely focused on men, the book includes a few women leaders as well as those wielding power behind the throne.) Particularly appealing are the author’s significant discussions of the Chinese emperors, who were first endowed with a sense of the so-called “Mandate of Heaven.” These rulers relied heavily on both secrecy and ritual, the latter manifested especially via the three primary schools of thought—Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism—that influenced Chinese leaders across centuries. In contract, the monarchies of modern Europe (see: Louis XIV and countless English kings) were fashioned for public display and lavish ceremony. Regardless of ruling style, the right type of emperor could be hugely influential, especially regarding religion: Ashoka (Buddhism), Constantine (Christianity), and the Safavid shahs (Shi’i Islam). In addition to illuminating analyses of political, social, and cultural matters, Lieven also includes a number of helpful maps to situate readers.

A consistently engaging comparison-contrast look at the mechanics of empire.