Patriarchy, property and death in the Roman family

Bibliographic Information

Patriarchy, property and death in the Roman family

Richard P. Saller

(Cambridge studies in population, economy and society in past time, 25)

Cambridge University Press, 1997, c1994

  • : pbk

Available at  / 10 libraries

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Note

Bibliography: p. 233-244

Includes index

Description and Table of Contents

Description

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.

Table of Contents

  • 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.

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