Lionel Casson Livres

Lucian, a young Syrian satirist from the second century, is renowned for his sharp wit and critical perspective on society, philosophy, and mythology. His works blend humor with keen observations, often targeting the absurdities of contemporary beliefs and practices. Through a variety of dialogues and narratives, he explores themes of skepticism and the nature of truth, making significant contributions to the genre of satire that resonate even today.

Rich in anecdote and colorful detail, it now returns to print in paperback with a new preface by the author.

Presented here is an accurate picture of the current status of investigations into ancient mysteries.

This revised edition of Casson's engaging work, originally published in 1975 as Daily Life in Ancient Rome, includes two new chapters as well as full documentation of the sources.

Includes the story of all that the ancients accomplished on the sea from the earliest times to the end of the Roman Empire. This title explains how they perfected trading vessels from mere rowboats into huge freighters that could carry over a thousand tons and how they transformed warships from simple oared transports into complex rowing machines.

Telling the story of ancient libraries from their very beginnings, when "books" were clay tablets, a renowned classicist takes readers on a lively tour from the royal libraries of the ancient Near East to the private and public libraries of Greece and Rome, down to the first Christian monastic libraries, explaining what books were acquired and how. Illustrations.

Exploring the intricacies of ancient Egyptian society, the book delves into the social hierarchy from peasants to pharaohs, highlighting family dynamics and women's roles. It covers various professions, detailing the contributions of scribes, architects, and artisans who created iconic sculptures and murals. A significant focus is placed on religion, discussing the pantheon of gods, the importance of the afterlife, and the controversial reign of Pharaoh Akhenaten, who challenged traditional beliefs.

Focusing on the evolution of Mediterranean maritime technology, this richly illustrated work explores shipbuilding and seamanship from 3000 B.C. to the peak of Byzantine naval power. It serves as a comprehensive guide, delving into the advancements and craftsmanship that shaped ancient shipping practices, providing readers with a detailed understanding of the historical significance and development of these vessels throughout the ages.