Penal Practice and Penal Policy in Ancient Rome

by O.F. Robinson

Overview

Using Roman literary and legal sources, this book assesses Roman penal policy through an in-depth examination of six high-profile criminal cases, ranging from the Bacchanalian trials in 186 BC to the trials for treason and magic in the fourth century. Identifying Roman attitudes to crime and punishment, this book brings out contrasts and developments in those attitudes. O.F. Robinson examines Roman criminal legislation (both that laid down by Justinian and that codified and confirmed by him) as well as Roman attitudes, both juristic and philosophical, to the purposes of punishment, including deterrence, retribution, reform, protection of the public and how they were modified over time. The author also discusses arguments for fixed as against flexible penalties, and the changes made in the actual punishments and in those to whom they were applied. This book is an essential tool for any specialist, student or researcher wishing to learn more about Roman values from their approach to crime and punishment

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780415518437
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	12/01/2012
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	264
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.19(h) x (d)

About the Author

O.F. Robinson is Professor Emeritus of Roman Law at Glasgow University. Her research interests are primarily Roman law and Roman law's later history. Her most important publications are Ancient Rome: City Planning and Administration (1992) and The Criminal Law of Ancient Rome (1995).

Table of Contents

1. The Bacchanalian Affair 2. Cicero, Murder and the Courts 3. The Trial of Cn. Piso Calpurnius in AD 20 4. Pliny and Repetundae Trials before the Senate 5. Acta Martyrum Christianorum: the Extension of Torture 6. Some Trials for Treason and Magic in the Fourth Century 7. Justinian the Legislator 8. Crime and Punishment