Customer Reviews

Law and Empire in Late Antiquity

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Jill Harries' work is a well written and economical portrait of the Late Roman legal system and the Law's central importance to the Late Antique notion of Empire. It complements well the recent more technical works of Tony Honoré ("Law in the Crisis of Empire 379-455 AD : The Theodosian Dynasty and Its Quaestors") and John Matthews ("Laying Down the Law : A Study of the Theodosian Code").

Although at times perhaps over-defensive about the use of violence in Late Antique Roman Law, Harries book generally provides an extremely well-balanced and lucid account of the theoretical and practical functioning of the Late Roman legal system. The book is accessible for beginners (whether interested in Late Antiquity, Roman Law, or, more generally in the functioning of "Law"). In addition, Harries' monograph serves as a useful reference and jumping off point for in-depth study and debate by scholars.

"Law and Empire in Late Antiquity" should be read by all with an interest in Late Antiquity or the history of law. Above all, it is an entertaining read, rich with detail, but with a eye toward presenting the topic with clarity and concision. In my opinion, Harries' book is the best introduction to the topic. I recommend it wholeheartedly.

Hopefully it will eventually be released in paperback, although I wouldn't hold my breath...