The Murder of Regilla: A Case of Domestic Violence in Antiquity

The Murder of Regilla reconstructs the life and death of Regilla, a wealthy Roman woman in the 2nd century CE who died under suspicious circumstances. Her husband Herodes Atticus, a prominent Greek aristocrat and philosopher, was accused of causing her death but never convicted. Pomeroy examines archaeological evidence, legal documents, and historical records to piece together the complex social and legal dynamics of elite Roman-Greek marriages. The investigation moves between Athens and Rome, exploring how status, gender, and power operated in both societies during this period. Through Regilla's story, the book reconstructs daily life for upper-class women in the Roman Empire, from marriage customs and property rights to religious duties and social obligations. The narrative encompasses both public monuments and private domestic spaces. The case serves as a lens for understanding how domestic violence was viewed and handled in antiquity, while raising questions about the limits of historical knowledge and the challenges of uncovering women's experiences in the ancient world.

Readers appreciate the detailed examination of ancient Roman domestic life and gender dynamics through this true crime narrative. Many note the book provides context about women's legal rights, marriage customs, and social expectations in 2nd century Rome. Positive reviews highlight: - Clear explanations of complex legal and social structures - Connection of historical evidence to modern domestic violence patterns - Thorough analysis of archaeological findings Common criticisms: - Too much speculation about events with limited evidence - Repetitive passages and slow pacing in middle sections - Some readers found the academic tone dry Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (447 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (58 ratings) One reader noted: "Pomeroy pieces together fragmentary evidence like a detective." Another commented: "The legal analysis is fascinating but the narrative drags when theorizing about unknowable details." Some history enthusiasts wanted more focus on broader Roman society rather than the specific case.

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🏺 Regilla was one of the wealthiest women in ancient Rome, with extensive land holdings across the empire. When she died at age 35, she was eight months pregnant with what would have been her sixth child. 📚 Author Sarah B. Pomeroy is considered a pioneer in the field of women's studies in classical antiquity. Her 1975 book "Goddesses, Whores, Wives, and Slaves" was groundbreaking in examining the lives of ancient women. 🏛️ The case against Herodes Atticus (Regilla's husband) was tried in the Roman Senate, with Emperor Marcus Aurelius himself presiding over parts of the proceedings. 🗿 Despite being accused of his wife's murder, Herodes Atticus went on to become one of the most celebrated intellectuals of his time. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, which he built in memory of Regilla, still stands in Athens today. 💎 The book draws from archaeological evidence, including inscriptions, statues, and buildings, as well as ancient texts to reconstruct this 2nd-century CE true crime story.