Caesar and Cicero’s War of Words
As ancient Rome was divided by civil war Cicero found himself torn. Caesar was his old adversary, but he was also powerful, and it was politically and personally expedient to support him.
Roman Empire
How Sacrifice Shaped Early Christian Identity
Today sacrifice is seen as a barbaric, pagan practice, but it was central to the formation of early Christian identity.
On the Spot: Michelle Renee Salzman
‘What is the most common misconception about my field? That Rome “fell” because of the barbarians.’
The Roman Annexation of Cyprus
In the first century BC Cyprus was caught between a waning Ptolemaic dynasty and an ambitious, indomitable Rome.
The First Christmas Celebration
On 25 December 336 Rome’s believers celebrated Christmas Day – the earliest recorded use of that date as it spread across Christendom.
Strabo: The First Geographer
As the father of descriptive geography, Strabo of Amasia provides a unique view of the early Roman Empire.
Saint Augustine: An African in the City of God
Saint Augustine was educated for a Roman world, but it was his time in North Africa that shaped his identity, his faith, and Christianity itself.
‘Strike’ by Sarah E. Bond review
Strike: Labor, Unions, and Resistance in the Roman Empire by Sarah E. Bond assembles a case for the power of the worker in ancient Rome.
‘Miracles and Wonder’ by Elaine Pagels review
Miracles and Wonder: The Historical Mystery of Jesus by Elaine Pagels finds that the son of God is more than the sum of his parts.
Why Did Rome Fall?
When it comes to the end of the Roman Empire three things are certain: death, taxes, and Goths. Were reports of its demise exaggerated?