Trouble at the baths

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This article is concerned with the seemingly common problem of the theft of personal belongings at the baths. It is argued, based on a close reading of epigraphic evidence and legal texts that, while theft was seemingly an ever-present concern, bathers could employ various legal strategies to ensure the safety of their personal belongings. An analysis of the legal rules and available legal remedies suggests that bathers were not completely without legal recourse. In addition, there is evidence that the Roman state sought to alleviate the situation through the introduction of various public-order offences.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)308 - 333
Number of pages26
JournalRevista Internacional de Derecho Romano
Volume2021
Issue number26
Publication statusPublished - 28 Apr 2021

Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)

  • Roman law
  • balnea
  • thermae
  • baths
  • furtum
  • damnum iniuria datum

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