Patriarchy, Property and Death in the Roman Family

This innovative study of the patriarchy belies the accepted notion of the father figure as tyrannical and exploitative.

Richard P. Saller (Author)

9780521599788, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 28 November 1996

268 pages, 30 tables
22.6 x 15.2 x 1.8 cm, 0.363 kg

' … a remarkable book, impressive in its command of diverse materials and methodologies and certain to inspire further advances'. The American Historical Review

The figure of the Roman father has traditionally provided the pattern of patriarchy in European thought. This book shows how the social realities and cultural representations diverged from this paradigm. Demographic analysis and computer simulation demonstrate that before adulthood most Romans lost their fathers by death. Close reading of Latin texts reveals Roman fathers as devoted and loving and not harsh exploitative masters of slaves. The demographic and cultural contexts deepen our understanding of how the patrimony was transmitted.

1. Introduction: approaches to the history of the Roman family
Part I. Roman Life Course and Kinship: Biology and Culture: 2. Roman patterns of death, marriage and birth
3. Simulations of Roman family and kinship
Part II. Roman Family and Culture: Definitions and Norms: 4. Familia and domus: defining and representing the Roman family and household
5. Pietas and patria potestas: obligation and power in the Roman household
6. Whips and words: discipline and punishment in the Roman household
Part III. The Devolution of Property in the Roman Family: 7. Strategies of succession in Roman families
8. Guardianship of Roman children
9. Dowries and daughters in Rome
10. Conclusion
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: General & world history [HBG]