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Latin inscriptions

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Dirk Booms

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Latin inscriptions may seem intimidating at first, appearing as a chaotic mix of letters. However, with the right approach, most are straightforward to read due to their adherence to strict grammatical and abbreviation rules. This book guides readers in 'deciphering' these inscriptions, emphasizing how even minor details can illuminate the daily lives of ordinary Romans. Unlike surviving literature, which often focuses on the elite, inscriptions were accessible to all, offering insights into the experiences of the less visible classes, including the poor, slaves, and women. Featuring exemplary inscriptions from the British Museum's Roman collection, the book delves into the significance of public inscriptions and the standardized abbreviations that enabled widespread comprehension across the Empire. Written in everyday Latin, these texts reflect societal linguistic changes, revealing the introduction of slang and new spellings, along with occasional spelling errors from those less fluent in Latin. Beyond the text, the style of decoration, accompanying images, and original locations of the inscriptions provide additional context. Each element of an inscribed monument was deliberately chosen by its commissioner, carrying specific meanings, allowing scholars to reconstruct valuable aspects of everyday Roman life that merit remembrance.