Description
Book SynopsisDrawing equally on archaeological and literary evidence, this book offers an original interpretation of the fundamental transformations of Rome's society, culture and identity during the period of its imperial expansion. It represents the culmination of a lifetime's work by one of the most important Roman historians alive today.
Trade Review'A brilliant analysis of cultural change, by a historian with an unrivalled mastery of both the literary and the archaeological evidence.' Peter Wiseman, University of Exeter
'Rome's Cultural Revolution uses the author's deep knowledge of Italy and his involvement with excavations at Pompeii and Herculaneum to bring together the material evidence for changes in taste and lifestyle with the literary evidence. The result is a brilliant new analysis of the cultural and social history, not only of later Republican Rome, but of its wider Italian setting.' Fergus Millar, University of Oxford
'This is a profound and challenging new look at a decisive period (ca.200 BC to AD 200) in Roman history, the product of years of close study and analysis.' Contemporary Review
'Wallace-Hadrill does not waste words. His writing is at all times persuasive and readable.' David J. Newsome, Rosetta
Table of ContentsPart I. Cultures and Identities: 1. Culture, power and identity; 2. Dress, language and identity; Part II. Building Identities: 3. Roman Italy: between Roman, Greek and local; 4. Vitruvius: building Roman identity; Part III. Knowledge and Power: 5. Knowing the ancestors; 6. Knowing the city; Part IV. The Consumer Revolution: 7. Luxury and the consumer revolution; 8. Waves of fashion; Epilogue: a cultural revolution?
