Point of View

The majority of the work is first person. Sections are from the point of view of Julian, though sections of the book are written from the point of view of Libanius and Priscus. None of the characters have an omniscient viewpoint, and all are limited by their own view and interpretation of the happenings. There is sufficient dialog to create a better look at many of the characters. There are many descriptions of places, people and events, all told in first person by one or another of the main three characters. In some places, one contradicts the other, indicating the the facts of the accounts are based solely on the memories of the authors.

Setting

The book begins in Antioch in 380 A.D. The main character travels over several areas of Rome during his rise to power. He discusses at length the cities of Athens, Constantinople...