A fascinating and often-funny look into Romans' private (or not-so-private) lives, exploring the truth behind the empire's salacious reputation.
From emperors to empresses, poets to prostitutes, slaves to plebs, ancient Rome was a wealth of different experiences and expectations—nowhere more so than around the subject of sex and sexuality. The image of ancient Rome that has come down to us is one of sexual excess: emperors gripped by perversion partaking in pleasure with whomever and whatever they fancied during weeklong orgies.
But how true are these tales of depravity? Was it really a sexual free-for-all? What were the laws surrounding sexual engagement? How did these vary according to gender and class? And what happened to those who transgressed the rules? We invite you to climb into bed with the Romans to discover some very odd contraceptive devices, gather top tips on how to attract a partner, and learn why you should avoid poets as lovers at all costs. Along the way we'll stumble across potions and spells, emperors and their favorites, and some truly eye-popping interior decor choices.
The essential self-help guide to living in Ancient Rome, covering all areas of everyday life in this ancient civilization, from religious beliefs and travel through to what to wear.
Imagine you were transported back in time to Ancient Rome and you had to start a new life there. How would you fit in? Where would you live? What would you eat? Where would you go to have your hair done? Who would you go to if you got ill, or if you were mugged in the street?
All these questions, and many more, will be answered in this new how-to guide for time travelers. Part self-help guide, part survival guide, this lively and engaging book will help the listener deal with the many problems and new experiences that they will face, and also help them to thrive in this strange new environment.
