A book about one of the most influential and controversial rulers in the history of the Jewish people and Ancient Rome - King Herod I the Great (73-4 BC. e.), whose name is familiar to most readers primarily from the gospel narrative about the beating of babies. During the years of his reign, Herod I expanded the possessions of the Kingdom of Judah, leaving behind unique examples of art and masterpieces of architecture, including the renovated Jerusalem Temple. However, he still firmly retains the reputation of a merciless tyrant, a monster who even executed his own sons.