Gender, family, and household in ancient Rome

The family and household were the fundamental units of production and reproduction in the Roman empire, embodying values and cultural assumptions about hierarchies of gender and status. This seminar will investigate the norms and assumptions as well as the demographic and economic realities, using literary, legal, and epigraphic evidence. Special attention will be paid to marginal members of the household, such as female and male slaves, freedwomen, and alumni (foster children).