Imperialism, Cultural Politics, and Polybius

This volume explores Roman imperialism in the third and second centuries BC, focusing on Polybius, Roman power dynamics, cultural absorption, and the significance of Illyria in Rome's expansion.

Imperialism, Cultural Politics, and Polybius delves into the intricate development of Roman imperialism during the third and second centuries BC. This collection of essays honors the esteemed Oxford scholar Peter Derow and explores key themes that resonate with his academic pursuits. Central to the volume is the examination of Polybius, a pivotal historical figure, alongside the defining traits of Roman power and ambition. The contributors, a distinguished group of international historians who studied under Derow, present a fresh perspective on this crucial period in history.

The essays not only analyze the mechanisms employed by Rome to establish and maintain its eastern empire but also highlight the cultural dynamics at play. A significant focus is placed on how Rome integrated various Eastern religions and the influence of Hellenistic artistic culture on its imperial identity. This cultural exchange underscores the complexity of Roman expansion and its impact on the societies it encountered.

Additionally, the book sheds light on the strategic importance of Illyria along the Adriatic Coast, a region that played a vital role in Rome's ascent to power. By synthesizing archaeological, epigraphic, and textual evidence, the volume articulates a compelling argument for Rome's systematic and determined pursuit of dominance. Overall, Imperialism, Cultural Politics, and Polybius offers an insightful contribution to the understanding of Roman imperialism and the legacy of Polybius as a historian.