Ancient Slavery - Mario Jose Maestri Filho

Ancient Slavery: A Comprehensive Overview

Mario Jose Maestri Filho's "Ancient Slavery" is a comprehensive and authoritative exploration of the history and impact of slavery in the ancient world. Drawing on a wealth of archaeological, historical, and literary sources, Maestri Filho provides a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of this complex and multifaceted institution.

Slavery in the Ancient World

Slavery was a widespread and integral part of ancient societies, existing in various forms across different cultures and civilizations. Maestri Filho examines the diverse manifestations of slavery in the ancient world, from the chattel slavery of the Roman Empire to the debt slavery of ancient Greece. He explores the legal, economic, and social factors that shaped the institution of slavery, as well as the experiences and perspectives of enslaved individuals.

The Slave Trade

The slave trade was a central aspect of the ancient economy, with slaves being bought, sold, and transported across vast distances. Maestri Filho traces the routes of the slave trade, from the African interior to the markets of the Mediterranean, and examines the role of various actors, such as merchants, pirates, and slave traders, in this lucrative trade. He also explores the impact of the slave trade on both the sending and receiving societies.

The Lives of Enslaved Individuals

Maestri Filho provides a vivid and empathetic account of the lives of enslaved individuals in the ancient world. He examines their working conditions, living arrangements, and social interactions, as well as the various forms of resistance and agency that they employed. Maestri Filho also explores the complex relationships between enslaved individuals and their owners, and the ways in which these relationships shaped the institution of slavery.

The Impact of Slavery

Slavery had a profound impact on ancient societies, shaping their economies, politics, and cultures. Maestri Filho examines the economic benefits that slavery brought to ancient societies, as well as the social and political tensions that it generated. He also explores the cultural representations of slavery in art, literature, and philosophy, and the ways in which these representations reflected and shaped societal attitudes towards slavery.

The End of Slavery

Maestri Filho concludes his study by examining the decline and eventual abolition of slavery in the ancient world. He explores the factors that contributed to the decline of slavery, such as the rise of Christianity, the decline of the Roman Empire, and the emergence of new economic systems. He also examines the various forms of emancipation that were granted to enslaved individuals, and the challenges that they faced in their post-slavery lives.

A Must-Read for Scholars and General Readers Alike

"Ancient Slavery" is a magisterial work of scholarship that offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of slavery in the ancient world. Maestri Filho's engaging writing style and his ability to synthesize a vast array of sources make this book accessible and enjoyable for both scholars and general readers alike. "Ancient Slavery" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of slavery, the ancient world, or the human condition.