Ammianus Marcellinus (extra credit)

Ammianus Marcellinus is the kind of writer ancient history graduate students hear about but don't actually read.  I suspect that is because he writes about that "no man's" land period that neither ancient historians nor medieval historians are really comfortable with.  Well, here's your chance to join the elite, those who have actually read portions of Ammianus Marcellinus' Roman History. The history originally covered all the emperors from Nerva through Valens.  The early sections are no longer extent, and what we have picks up during the reign  of Constantius.  There's some good information here on Constantius, a great analysis of Julian, and good information on Julian's successors Valens and Valentinian, figures I don't talk about in class.

Please read just enough of the history here to get a feeling of what kind of writer Ammianus Marcellinus was.  From what you read, do you think he deserves more attention than he usually gets?  Do you see any particular strengths/weaknesses?  Is the history interesting?  Would you like to read more when you get a chance?