5-Week SASA Continuing Education Reading Group : Imperial Encounters- Material Culture under Roman Rule in Egypt

The introduction of Roman rule to Egypt in 30 BC brought about a transition from a dynastic monarchy, to a province of the expanding Roman empire, resulting in interplay between both imperial power and native Egyptian culture. Focusing on this transformative period, we will explore the values and importance of material culture as primary evidence, including the Fayum mummy portrait panels, hybrid tomb decoration, and changing temple adornments and architecture. We will analyse the cultural encounters between Rome and Egypt, understanding how Roman rule influenced the life of those living and working in Egypt during this period, including religious practices, elite strategy, and artistic expression in life and death.

Key topics will include the continuity of Hellenistic influences during this period, despite Egypt's status as a Roman province, the rise of syncretic deities such as Serapis, the assimilation of imperial cult with native Egyptian culture, and the appropriation and manipulation…