The first two centuries AD are conventionally thought of as the "golden age" of the Roman Empire, yet Italy in this period has often been seen as being in a state of decline and even crisis. This book investigates the relationships between city and countryside in Italy in the early Empire, using evidence from literary texts and inscriptions, and the wealth of data derived from archaeological field surveys over recent years. Looking at individual towns and regions as well as at the broader picture, and stressing the diversity of situations across Italy, John R. Patterson examines how changing patterns of building and benefaction in the cities were related to developments in the country, and underlines the resourcefulness of the cities, both large and small, in seeking to maintain and develop their civic traditions.

Politicians of the Roman Republic employed techniques ranging from persuasive oratory through extravagant entertainment and bribery to lethal violence to get their way. Rivalries were fought out on the streets of Rome and in the popular assemblies as much as in the Senate House. This book looks at the Roman political system of 200-50 BC: how it worked, the influence of the ordinary Romans, the voter and political persuasion. A central theme is the topography of the city of Rome - how did political rivalries transform the appearance of the city?