Understanding Roman inscriptions /

In addition to its literary remains, Rome left a highly complex public culture articulated by physical monuments and inscriptions. Cut in stone and metal, spelled in mosaic, inked on papyrus, and painted on walls and pottery, inscriptions make up a primary class of historical evidence that is both material and abstract. This well-produced introductory guide illustrates the full range of epigraphic study. Individual chapters assess the physical appearance of surviving inscriptions, methods of reconstructing their literary content, and how their systematic study evolved. Both famous and little-known texts appear in short topical chapters devoted to local and imperial government, roads and frontiers, public religon and private memorials, and everyday social and economic concerns. Most of these Latin texts come from the western provinces under the early empire; the Republic and late empire, the eastern provinces, and palaeography are mentioned only in passing. By focusing on names, numerals, abbreviations, and the most common honorific formulae, the book serves as a practical guide to understanding the kinds of inscriptions most frequently encountered on archaeological sites or in museums. Many maps, photographs, and drawings illustrate the book, which is complemented by useful appendixes and references. Successfully conveys the excitement of discovering Roman society through its inscribed words. All levels of readers.