The First Man in Rome represents a significant shift in Colleen McCullough's literary style and genre exploration. Departing from her usual focus, this novel initiates a series centered around male protagonists and adheres strictly to historical events. The book showcases McCullough's strength in bringing intricate details of character and domestic life to vivid life.

A New Direction

Gaius Marius, the central figure in the narrative, is introduced as an ambitious aristocrat hailing from the provinces. Although he possesses considerable wealth, he initially lacks the esteemed social standing prized in Roman society. Marius navigates these challenges by marrying into the influential Caesar family and demonstrates his prowess through a remarkable military career, ultimately attaining the prestigious title of "the first man in Rome." This designation reflects his ability to excel and outshine his contemporaries.

Setting as a Character

In a fashion reminiscent of The Thorn Birds, McCullough skillfully transforms the setting into a crucial character within the novel. The Roman elite depicted are steeped in a culture of devotion to their nation, expected to engage in politics and military leadership. Bred with an unyielding sense of duty, Roman men were trained to prioritize the welfare of Rome above personal interests. Women, confined by strict societal norms, supported their male counterparts by adhering to domestic responsibilities, allowing the latter to focus on governance and warfare.

Attention to Detail

McCullough’s work is renowned for its rich tapestry of details. The book provides maps, a glossary, and pronunciation aids for Latin terms, along with a comprehensive list of characters. The author meticulously captures the essence of ancient Rome, from its architecture and streets to the attire and attitudes of its people. This intense level of detail may slow the reader’s pace, yet it offers an immersive experience, painting a vivid picture of a society where the state profoundly influences its citizens' lives. By reconstructing the ancient world, McCullough invites modern readers to witness the past intimately.

Historical Constraints

Adhering to historical accuracy imposes certain constraints on the story's trajectory. While McCullough's characters do encounter fortune's fluctuations—victories and defeats, serendipitous achievements, or tragic demises—these events stem from the characters' inherent traits or plausible circumstances rather than mere coincidence. This adherence to real-life events allows McCullough to delve deeper into character development, minimizing plot coincidences and focusing instead on the intricacies of individual personalities and their interactions.