Battle Elephants and Flaming Foxes: Animals in the Roman World

Animals were an essential part of Roman life, from chariot horses to elephants and rhinos. They were used in warfare, poetry, and sacrifice and their stories are revealed in memorials and images. The book explores the relationships the Romans had with these creatures and how they used them to their advantage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 26 January 2023
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

Animals played a significant role in Roman life, from the thundering hooves of chariot horses pounding the dusty racetrack to the mighty cries of elephants charging the battlefields. Memorials left to beloved dogs or images of arena animals hammered onto coins provide a glimpse into their stories and roles in Roman history.

Why did the emperor Augustus always carry a seal skin nearby? What was the most dangerous part of a chariot race? How could a wolf help with toothache?

Take a gallop into the Roman world of chariot horses, battle elephants, and rampaging rhinos. In the ancient world, bears could be weaponized, venomous snakes could alter the course of a battle at sea, and cranes could be boiled (and who doesn't?). The Romans had answers to these questions and more. They wove animals into poetry, sacrificed them, and slaughtered thousands in their arenas. Animal skins reinforced shields, and ivory decorated the hilts of their swords.

Battle Elephants and Flaming Foxes delves into the fascinating relationships the Romans had with the creatures they lived and died alongside. From much-loved dogs to talking ravens, the book explores who the Romans really were through their interactions with these extraordinary animals.

Weight: 572g
Dimension: 165 x 243 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780750999618