Robert Harris’s Pompeii impresses with its meticulous historical accuracy and vivid portrayal of the ancient city. Readers appreciate the engaging narrative and well-developed characters, though some criticize the pacing as occasionally sluggish. The blend of suspense and historical detail makes it a compelling read despite minor flaws.

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with a blend of suspense would be captivated by Robert Harris's Pompeii. It's perfect for fans of Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth or Anthony Doerr's All the Light We Cannot See, offering an immersive experience in ancient history with rich, vivid storytelling.

Pompeii by Robert Harris follows Marcus Attilius Primus, a young aqueduct engineer, sent from Rome to the Bay of Naples to investigate a mysterious water shortage. As he uncovers corruption and criminal activities, he faces various dangers, including betrayal and the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Historical and fictional elements intertwine as Attilius navigates these challenges while trying to save the city and those he cares about. 

Violence and death of animals and people occur in the narrative.

Suspenseful / Mysterious / Dark / Gritty / Challenging

- Pompeii by Robert Harris blends historical fiction with detailed scientific elements, offering a vivid depiction of Roman engineering, particularly in its portrayal of the Aqua Augusta, an aqueduct critical to the storyline.
- The novel intricately weaves real historical events and figures with fictional characters, providing readers with both entertainment and a deeper understanding of Roman society before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
- Robert Harris conducted extensive on-site research for the novel, including studying the ruins of Pompeii and the volcanic region, to accurately capture the atmosphere and details of the ancient city.

**Marcus Attilius Primus**  
A young and dedicated aqueduct engineer sent from Rome to the Bay of Naples, determined to uphold his family's engineering legacy despite personal tragedy.

**Ampliatus**  
A former slave who has risen to become the wealthiest man in Pompeii through questionable means, reflecting the corruption of the society around him.

**Corelia**  
The daughter of Ampliatus, who becomes increasingly disillusioned with her father's immoral actions and seeks to assert her own moral agency.

**Pliny the Elder**  
A historical figure portrayed as a knowledgeable and earnest scientist, committed to documenting the natural world around him.

**Corax**  
A member of Attilius’s engineering crew who opposes and undermines Attilius’s authority, complicating efforts to repair the aqueduct.

Robert Harris

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Mars”

Part 1 Pompeii Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Mercury”

Part 2, Chapters 6-9

Pompeii Part 2, Chapters 6-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 10-13

Pompeii Part 2, Chapters 10-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Jupiter”

Part 3 Pompeii Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Venus”

Part 4 Pompeii Part 4 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Pompeii Character Analysis

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Pompeii Symbols & Motifs

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Pompeii: A Novel

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