The very word Rome evokes power. The two terms are regularly conjoined in public perception. Imperial conquest, territorial expansion, military coercion, administrative control, and the exercise of nearly unchallenged authority convey the compelling images that make Rome and power nearly synonymous. In this book, Harris, whose long and productive career has provided a plethora of important, influential, and enduring books and articles, has given us thoughtful reflections upon the character and meaning of Roman power over the course of a thousand years. This admirably ambitious endeavor is a most welcome contribution by one who has already contributed so much to the field of ancient history.
How does one go about defining, tracing, and evaluating Roman power? Harris’ reach is wide, not only chronologically but also conceptually. His treatment does not confine itself to conquest and control. Harris’ notion of power encompasses political, economic, social, and ideological power. He asks large...