The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire

::This is about the book. For the historical event see Decline of the Roman Empire

Gibbon's legacy

Gibbon?s methodology was so accurate that, to this day, little can be found to controvert his use of primary sources for evidence. While modern historical methodology has changed dramatically, his skill in translation of his sources is considered impeccable. Contemporary historians still rely on Gibbon as a reliable secondary source to substantiate references and for citations. His literary tone in the History is out of date to modern readers, and is always described as skeptical and pessimistic. However, it mirrors both the man and more importantly, the topic of his great work: the gradual decay of a mighty empire. Since its first publication, the title has been shortened from The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire to The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.

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