Dr. Leslie Ivings
Historian and author
About Author
Dr. Leslie Ivings is a historian, educator, and newly published author passionate about exploring the ancient world and its relevance today. He holds a BA in Politics and History from the University of the North West (South Africa), a BA (Hons) in Ancient History and Classical Culture from the University of South Africa, and a PhD from the University of York.
For over a decade, he taught History at the senior matriculant level, inspiring students to see beyond dates and events into the stories that shaped civilizations. He is also a book reviewer for the Cambridge University Press's Journal of Classics Teaching and the Rhea Classical Review, and has contributed two chapters to Teaching Classics Worldwide (Bloomsbury, 2018).
In 2025, he released his debut book, Byzantine Emperor Constantine V, 'the Dung-named', which brings together his passion for scholarship and storytelling. [One-sentence description of the book].
Through his writing, Dr. Ivings aims to share the enduring lessons of the past with readers today, reminding us that history is not just what happened - it's who we are.
Book Preview
Passionate about the ancient world and the lessons it still whispers today, Dr. Leslie Ivings has spent years bringing history to life for students and readers alike.
Background & Credentials
North-West University
BA in Politics & History
South Africa
University of York
PhD in History
United Kingdom
University of York
PhD in History
United Kingdom
Teaching Experience
Senior Matriculant Level
10 Years
Professional Contributions
Journal of Classics Teaching
Reviewer for Cambridge University Press
Rhea Classical Review
Academic reviewer and contributor
Teaching Classics Worldwide
Contributor of two chapters (Bloomsbury, edited by Steven Hunt)
Featured Publications
Byzantine Emperor Constantine V, 'the Dung-named'
The Iconoclast and Military Reformer
A comprehensive examination of one of Byzantium's most controversial emperors, exploring Constantine V's military campaigns, iconoclastic policies, and lasting impact on the Byzantine Empire.
Teaching Classics Worldwide
Global Perspectives on Classical Education
Dr. Ivings contributed two chapters to this comprehensive volume exploring innovative approaches to teaching classics across different cultural and educational contexts.
Upcoming Book Projects
Twilight of the Roman West
Reimagines the last years of the Western Roman Empire through the reign of Julius Nepos, the true but forgotten final emperor. More than a tale of collapse, this is a study of survival, ambition, and erasure: why history remembered Romulus Augustulus but silenced the emperor who outlived him.
238: Rome on the Brink
The Year of Six Emperors (AD 238) was one of the most dramatic turning points in Roman history. This book explores the clash between Senate and soldiery, the weight of legitimacy, and the brutal realities of power in the third century.
The Palgrave Handbook on Classics in Africa
Expands the landscape of Classics Education on the African Continent, focusing on lived teacher experiences and new research. Contributions focus on chapters about East and North Africa.
Personal Philosophy
"History is not merely the study of what was, but a search for meaning in the stories we choose to remember—and those we choose to forget. My work is driven by a belief that the past is never truly lost, and that every voice, however faint, deserves to be heard."
Dr. Ivings is committed to uncovering the overlooked narratives of history, challenging received wisdom, and fostering curiosity in every reader. His approach blends rigorous scholarship with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make the ancient world accessible and relevant to all.
Contact & Follow
For speaking engagements, media inquiries, or to connect with Dr. Ivings: