The True Herod

Who was Herod the Great? How did he come togovern one of the most politically tumultuous regions in the world? Was he theheartless baby-killer of Matthew's Gospel, or does this popular tale do Herod agreat disservice?

Geza Vermes, whose work on the HistoricalJesus and the Dead Sea Scrolls has made him one of the most recognisable namesin Biblical and Jewish studies, provides a new portrait of Herod. Vermesexamines Herod's legacy as a political leader, and a potentate, a man ofculture, and an all-round smooth operator. Vermes opens up the fascinatingcharacter of Herod, from his sizable and fragile ego to his devastation at theexecution of his beloved wife, an execution that Herod ordered himself.Beginning with the key historical sources (notably Josephus) Vermes moves ontoconsider Herod's greatest legacy and testatment - his extensive building works,which include the Temple in Jerusalem, Masada and Herodium. Colour images,combined with Vermes' lively prose make this new picture of Herod an enticingand informative guide to one of Ancient History's most misunderstood figures.

Geza Vermes is Professor Emeritus of Jewish Studies, University of Oxford, UK.