Digital Maps of the Ancient World

Romanization

Embark on a journey to uncover the intricate process of Romanization during the Roman Empire with our carefully curated reading list.

Romanization, the assimilation of conquered territories and peoples into Roman culture and society, shaped the diverse landscapes of the ancient world and left an indelible mark on history. Explore the multifaceted dimensions of Romanization, from its political and administrative strategies to its profound influence on language, religion, architecture, and daily life. Delve into scholarly works that illuminate the complexities of cultural exchange, resistance, and adaptation across the far-reaching reaches of the Roman Empire. Gain insights into the dynamic interactions between Roman colonizers and indigenous populations, and examine the lasting legacies of Romanization in modern-day Europe, North Africa, and the Near East. Whether you’re intrigued by the transformative power of empire or fascinated by the resilience of local cultures, our reading list offers a diverse selection of perspectives to deepen your understanding of Romanization and its enduring impact on the ancient world.

General

  • Mattingly, D.J. (ed.), Dialogues in Roman imperialism: power, discourse, and discrepant experience in the Roman Empire, Portsmouth RI, 1997.

Further Reading

  • Gardner, A., ‘Thinking about Roman Imperialism: Postcolonialism, Globalisation and Beyond?’ in Britannia.44, 2013, 1-25.
  • Mattingly, D.J., An imperial possession: Britain in the Roman Empire, 54 BC-AD 409, London, 2006.
  • Millett, M., The Romanization of Britain: an essay in archaeological interpretation, Cambridge, 1990.
  • Slofstra, J., Batavians and Romans on the Lower Rhine: The Romanisation of a frontier area in Archaeological Dialogues.9.1, Cambridge, 2002, 16-38.
  • Whittaker, C.R., Imperialism and culture: ‘The Roman initiative’ in Dialogues in Roman imperialism: power, discourse, and discrepant experience in the Roman Empire, Portsmouth RI, 1997, 147-163.
  • Woolf, G., Becoming Roman: the origins of provincial civilization in Gaul, Cambridge, 1998.
  • Woolf, G., Rome: an empire’s story, Oxford, 2012, Ch 14.
  • Woolf, G., ‘Romanization 2.0 and its alternatives’ in Archaeological Dialogues.21.1, Cambridge, 2014, 45-50.