Astrology in Roman Law and Politics; Memoirs of the American Philosophical Society held at Philadelphia for Promoting Useful Knowledge, Volume 48
Philadelphia, PA: American Philosophical Society, 1954. First Edition. Hardcover. Folio. x + 292 pp. Original blue cloth with gilt title etc. to front cover and spine, b&w illustrations. A study of the part that was played by Astrology in Roman thought and society from its origin in the Hellenistic world and republican Rome until the beginning of the second century AD, including a survey of the laws that were adopted at various times to suppress it. The author, a Professor of History of at Mount Holyoke College, had intended to write a second volume that would extend the study as far as the reign of Justinian I, but was killed in an automotive accident in France before it could be completed. Chapter headings: Part I. The Rise and Triumph of Astrology in the Latin World: I. Rise of Astrology in the Hellenistic World; II. The Conversion of Republican Rome to Astrology (250-44 BC) ; III. Astrologers - The Power Behind the Throne, from Augustus to Domitian; IV. Astrology in Rome from Nerva to the Death of Severus Alexander (96-235) ; Part II. Astrology in Roman Law until the End of the Principate: V. Expulsion of Astrologers from Rome and Italy; VI. Empire Wide Legal Restrictions of Astrology and Other Divination During the Principate; Conclusion; Index. A hint of shelfwear, otherwise a tight, bright near-Fine copy in VG+ dust jacket. (Dust jacket is lightly rubbed at edges and with a couple of tears at the base of the spine. Not clipped. Now in removable mylar sleeve.) Oversized book may require additional shipping. Item #68765
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