The Ancient City: A Study of the Religion, Laws, and Institutions of Greece and Rome (Illustrated)

The Ancient City is a comprehensive and groundbreaking investigation into life and living during classical antiquity, offering a fascinating look at how day-to-day life in ancient Rome and Greece evolved and was sustained for centuries.

Coulanges' central thesis that religion was the backbone upon which all life in the ancient society rested is explored through a detailed examination of customs and morals, marriage, adoption, property rights, governance, and the class system.

This book provides a unique insight into the physical city, including how it grew in size, what amenities and institutions appeared, and how religion impacted the citizen's life.

The Ancient City also explores the convergence of Greek and Roman cultures, cementing their legacies through shared religious beliefs, structures, democratic institutions, and class systems.

With a considerable body of primary sources and an excellent writing style, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in ancient history and culture.