Trade, Transport and Society in the Ancient World - Fik Meijer|Onno Van Nijf|Onno

This book presents an introduction to the nature of trade and transport in antiquity through a selection of translated literary, papyrological, epigraphical and legal sources. Lesser-known texts are included, as well as familiar ones, which illustrate a range of aspects of ancient trade and transport: from the role of the authorities, to the status of traders, to the capacity and speed of ancient ships. Meijer and van Nijf's starting point is the ideology and practice of ancient trade. The book deals with Greek and Roman value systems and elite attitudes towards trade, then discusses the realities of trade across the entire ancient world. Special attention is given to forms of exchange other than commercial exchange, the attitudes of authorities to trade and ways in which trade was organized. The principle commodities of ancient trade are outlined in detail: grain, wool and textiles, wine and oil, building materials and slaves. It is clear that the actual means of transportation were crucial - this book illustrates the limitations of ancient transport technology and the consequences for the development of commerce.