Seafaring and Mobility in the Late Antique Mediterranean

The sea has been understood as immovable, but its capacity for movement shaped its significance in Late Antique societies. This volume explores the sea as an environment and the pursuit of seafaring in antiquity, drawing on literary, legal, and archaeological evidence to examine social, economic, and cultural factors. The contributions are structured into three thematic parts: Part One examines the Mediterranean as an environment with metaphorical and symbolic potential, Part Two explores networks of seaborne communication, and Part Three engages with the practicalities of tackling the sea as a challenging environment.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The sea, a vast and enduring presence, has long been regarded as an immovable force, surpassing even the majestic mountains in its steadfastness. However, it is the sea's remarkable ability to move, both physically and metaphorically, that has shaped its profound significance in Late Antique societies. This captivating volume seeks to unravel the multifaceted nature of the sea as an environment and the pursuit of seafaring in antiquity. By drawing upon a diverse array of literary, legal, and archaeological evidence, it offers a fresh and interdisciplinary perspective on this captivating era.

The contributions to this volume are organized into three thematic sections, each exploring different aspects of the sea's significance. Part One takes a broad view of the Mediterranean as an environment brimming with metaphorical and symbolic potential. It examines the sea as a source of inspiration, a place of refuge, and a symbol of power and dominion. Part Two delves into the intricate networks of seaborne communication that crisscrossed the Mediterranean, highlighting the role of islands as the central hubs of this maritime realm. Part Three engages with the practical challenges and complexities of navigating the sea, emphasizing the political, legal, and economic aspects that shaped the seafaring experience.

Through these thematic chapters, the volume sheds light on the diverse social, economic, and cultural factors that shaped the pursuit of seafaring in antiquity. It explores the relationships between maritime communities, the exchange of goods and ideas, and the development of maritime technologies. It also examines the role of the sea in shaping political ideologies, military strategies, and cultural identities.

In conclusion, this volume offers a groundbreaking exploration of the sea as an environment and the pursuit of seafaring in antiquity. By bringing together a wide range of evidence and perspectives, it provides a rich and nuanced understanding of this captivating era. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the history, culture, and significance of the sea.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350201705