Hellenistic and Roman Egypt

This collection by Roger Bagnall explores Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine Egypt, addressing historical and papyrological methods, archaeological direction, economic models, and various forms of evidence, including inscriptions and literature.

Hellenistic and Roman Egypt is a comprehensive collection of studies by Roger Bagnall, focusing on the historical and papyrological aspects of Egypt during the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. This second volume brings together a selection of his work from the past thirty years, highlighting the evolution of research in this field. Bagnall explores various methodological issues, such as the restoration of papyrus texts and the direction of archaeological efforts in Egypt, providing insights into the complexities of studying ancient documents and artifacts.

In addition to methodological discussions, the book delves into economic models relevant to Roman Egypt, offering a nuanced understanding of the region's economic landscape. Bagnall also examines the applicability of postcolonial theory to the study of ancient Egypt, encouraging readers to consider how contemporary theoretical frameworks can illuminate historical narratives. His analyses of the literary tradition associated with the Library of Alexandria further enrich the discussion, addressing the challenges posed by incomplete texts and the significance of literary culture in this influential center of learning.

The collection also presents focused studies on specific types of evidence, ranging from inscriptions to ascetic literature, and even women's letters. By examining these diverse sources, Bagnall provides a multifaceted view of life in ancient Egypt, emphasizing the importance of various forms of documentation in reconstructing historical realities. Overall, Hellenistic and Roman Egypt serves as an essential resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for this rich and complex historical period.