Rome and the Western Greeks, 350 BC - AD 200

This is an innovative account of Roman relations with Magna Graecia from 350 BC to the 3rd century AD, focusing on the Greek cities of Southern Italy and Campania. It highlights the means by which Rome expanded into Southern Italy, the particular local factors which affected the nature of the relationship, and the social, political, economic and cultural changes which occurred as a result of Romanization. Specifically it explores the role of the Greek cities of Italy as cultural mediators between the Greek and Roman worlds and the exploitation of the cultural heritage as a means of legitimation of Roman power and definition of civic identities. Kathryn Lomas' work includes a synthesis of the archaeological documentation relative to the development of Magna Graecia from 3rd century BC, but it is principally based on historical, epigraphic and literary evidence. This detailed case study of the relations of Rome with one area of Italy clarifies the processes of political/diplomatic control and cultural Romanization. This book offers a full length treatment of the region as a whole.

`... a solid and exceptionally useful study. ... she has performed a major service by adding southern Italy to an emerging picture of impact of Rome on the societies of the Mediterranean basin.' - Publication Unknown`Lomas's book is a baluable guide to the fascinating subject of southern Italy in the Republican and early Imperial periods.' - Jnrl of Hellenic Studies