A Cultural History of Western Empires in Antiquity

This first volume of A Cultural History of Western Empires in Antiquity explores war and resistance, economic performance, social and geographical mobility, slavery and social control, lived experience, and imperial discourses of race and identity in the Mediterranean. It offers a bold new account of the Roman Empire, juxtaposing key topics that are not always considered together.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 15 December 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This first volume, written by an expert team of scholars, delves into a comprehensive examination of various aspects of the Roman Empire. It explores the themes of war and resistance, the diverse engines of economic performance, social and geographical mobility within the Mediterranean region, slavery and social control, the lived experiences of individuals, and the imperial discourses of race and identity. Moreover, the book takes a deep dive into the geographical and ecological contexts in which the cultural histories of the Roman world unfolded.

In total, this first volume comprises a total of 13 chapters, each offering a fresh and innovative perspective on the Roman Empire. By juxtaposing key topics that are often overlooked when considered collectively under the rubric of "culture," the book provides a bold and comprehensive account of this influential historical era.

The introduction to the volume serves as a comprehensive guide, providing a sweeping overview of the cultural history of ancient Mediterranean empires, with a particular focus on the Roman Empire. It explores the intricate relationship between state-formation and culture in the ancient Mediterranean world, spanning from the rise of civilization in Mesopotamia to the fall of the Roman Empire in late antiquity.

Throughout the chapters, the book is richly illustrated with a wide array of images, including monuments, statues, sculptures, mosaics, paintings, coins, and other captivating artifacts from ancient material culture. These illustrations not only enhance the visual appeal of the text but also serve as valuable insights into the material culture of the Roman Empire and its impact on the lives of its subjects.

One of the key themes explored in the volume is the profound influence of imperial power and authority on the various aspects of Roman society. The chapters delve into the labor and movements of the Empire's mostly anonymous subjects, as well as their sexualities and consciousness. The authors shed light on how the deep structures of imperial power shaped not only the economic and political landscape but also the social and cultural norms of the time.

Another notable aspect of the volume is its exploration of the diverse social and cultural experiences of individuals within the Roman Empire. The chapters examine the lives of different groups, including slaves, freedmen, women, and children, and explore their roles, struggles, and achievements within the Empire. The authors highlight the complexities and contradictions of Roman society, as well as the ways in which individuals navigated and negotiated the various social hierarchies and hierarchies.

In conclusion, A Cultural History of Western Empires in Antiquity is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh and innovative perspective on the Roman Empire. Written by an expert team of scholars, the volume provides a comprehensive examination of war and resistance, economic performance, social and geographical mobility, slavery and social control, lived experience, and imperial discourses of race and identity. Through rich illustrations and insightful analysis, the book sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of the Roman Empire and its impact on the cultural, social, and political landscapes of the ancient Mediterranean world. This volume is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich and fascinating history of the Roman Empire.

Weight: 566g
Dimension: 169 x 244 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350358201