Amazon.com Product Description (ISBN 0198143931, Hardcover)

This book describes how the Romans succeeded in changing the culture of the ruling classes of the Italian Allies during the imperial age. Evidence for this is primarily found in the archaeological record, but Torelli includes in his analysis the literary tradition and epigraphical evidence. Adopting an anthropological perspective, special emphasis is placed on the religious values and cult traditions of the Romans and their unifying role.