The Roman Empire, at its peak during the Principate (from 27 BC to AD 235), spanned parts of three continents: Europe, Africa, and Asia. Within it coexisted a variety of cultures and languages.

What was its form of governance? What cohesive forces contributed to its unity? What consequences did the conflict between imperial and local institutions, customs, and values have on the provincial world?

These are some of the questions addressed in this concise introduction to the economy, society, and culture of the Roman Empire.

The structure of the book is thematic rather than chronological, integrating the usual subjects of Roman history (political events and governance, central administration, and military organization) into the study of society as a whole.

[Excerpt from the text on the back cover of the edition]