Piracy in the Graeco-Roman World

Description

This book is an historical study of piracy in the ancient Greek and Roman world. It examines the origins and growth of piracy, the impact of piracy on trade, and the relationship between warfare and piracy, and evaluates attempts to suppress piracy by the states and rulers of the ancient world. A major innovation is the author's discussion of the way that pirates and piracy are portrayed in major works of classical literature, including Homer, Cicero and the ancient novels.

Philip de Souza was Senior Lecturer in Classical Studies at St Mary's University College, Strawberry Hill. He is also the author of Seafaring and Civilisation (2001; 1861973624) and the forthcoming Ancient Naval Warfare.

'Any reader interested in the development of the Mediterranean political or economic landscape, the literature of entertainment which often featured pirate attacks, and a history of piracy based on texts of the ancient world will benefit greatly by reading this volume.' Cheryl Ward, Nautical Archaeology '... it is pithy and to-the-point and should easily take its place as the standard work of reference in English and the launching pad for all further investigations.' James Davidson, Times Literary Supplement