Ancient Rome and Modern America

"An excellent and stimulating overview of the abiding vitality of Rome as a model and inspiration for American culture, both high and popular. A pioneering work of remarkable range."
–Karl Galinsky, University of Texas, Austin

"With a keen eye for popular culture, Malamud shows how Americans from Valley Forge to Caesars Palace have used ancient Rome to define themselves."
–Caroline Winterer, Stanford University

"Rome represents all that America wishes not to be and yet also mirrors its aspirations and pride. Malamud has adroitly revealed the multiplicity of American society that its patriotic and commercial images have often hidden."
–Arthur Pomeroy, Victoria University of Wellington

Margaret Malamud (Author)

9781405139342, Wiley

Paperback / softback, published 10 October 2008

320 pages
24.7 x 17.3 x 1.7 cm, 0.553 kg

"Malamud’s analysis provides a key to understanding why the US party system aligns itself with certain issues. To be read by all Americans, as history or a warning. [It is] not just another United States as New Rome, but [has] clear, meaningful comparisons. [It] clarifies our current political trajectory." (About.com (Ancient History Guide), November 2008)

Ancient Rome and Modern America explores the vital role the narratives and images of Rome have played in America’s understanding of itself and its history.

• Places America’s response to Rome in a historical context, from the Revolutionary era to the present
• Looks at portrayals of Rome in different media: writing, architecture, theatre, painting, World’s Fairs and Expositions, and film
• Beautifully illustrated with over 40 high quality photographs and figures

List of Illustrations vii

Subject Areas: History [HB]