This is the first book-length examination of Roman wedding ritual.

The famous polymath Plutarch often discussed the relationship between spouses in his works, including Marriage Advice, Dialogue on Love, and many of the Parallel Lives. In this collection, leading scholars explore the marital views expressed in Plutarch's works and the art, philosophy, and literature produced by his contemporaries and predecessors. Through aesthetically informed and sensitive modes of analysis, these contributors examine a wealth of representations—including violence in weddings and spousal devotion after death. The Discourse of Marriage in the Greco-Roman World demonstrates the varying conceptions of an institution that was central to ancient social and political life—and remains prominent in the modern world. This volume will contribute to scholars' understanding of the era and fascinate anyone interested in historic depictions of marriage and the role and status of women in the late Hellenistic and early Imperial periods.

A Companion to Greek and Roman Sexualities presents a comprehensive collection of original essays relating to aspects of gender and sexuality in the classical world. Views the various practices and discursive contexts of sexuality systematically and holistically Discusses Greece and Rome in each chapter, with sensitivity to the continuities and differences between the two classical civilizations Addresses the classical influence on the understanding of later ages and religion Covers artistic and literary genres, various social environments of sexual conduct, and the technical disciplines of medicine, magic, physiognomy, and dream interpretation Features contributions from more than 40 top international scholars

In the second novel in New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Dray’s thrilling trilogy, Cleopatra’s daughter seeks the power to stand against an empire... Having survived her perilous childhood as a royal captive of Rome, Selene has pledged her loyalty to Emperor Augustus, swearing to become his very own Cleopatra. But even though she is forced to marry a man of the emperor’s choosing, Selene will not allow her new husband to rule in her name. Quickly establishing herself as a capable leader, she wins the love of her new subjects and makes herself vital to Rome by bringing forth bountiful harvests with the magic of Isis flowing through her veins. As she rules the kingdom of Mauretania and contends with imperial politics and religious persecution, Selene beguiles her way to the precipice of power with the ultimate goal of taking back her birthright. But the price of winning back her mother’s Egyptian throne may be more than she’s willing to pay...

Brides, Mourners, Bacchae will be of value to scholars of classics and ancient religions, as well as anyone interested in the study of gender in antiquity or the connection between religion and ideology.