Archaeology of Prostitution

Book Details:

• ISBN: 9788130718071
• Author: R. Cefaratti
• Pages: 100 pp
• Year of Publishing: 2020
• Binding: Hard Bound
• Publisher: Cosmo Publications

This book explores the daily lives of prostitutes in the early Roman Empire, a subject that is challenging to research due to the scattered nature of the evidence in ancient sources. The author focuses on archaeological and art historical records, examining material culture and spatial data from sites believed to have been brothels. Erotic art and graffiti are also explored as they provide insight into sexual life and prostitution during the time.

The research delves into the difficulties in distinguishing brothels from other types of structures based on the material found at excavation sites. The study particularly highlights Pompeii as a case study, offering a unique opportunity to assess the methodological problems associated with using material culture as evidence for prostitution. The book serves as a rare and significant contribution to the understanding of this often overlooked aspect of Roman life.