Roman Religion in Valerius Maximus

Valerius Maximus was an indefatigable collector of historical anecdotes that illustrated both vice and virtue; hisMemorable Deeds and Sayingsare unparalleled in the breadth of Roman opinions it contains. Hans-Friedrich Mueller illustrates what Valerius Maximus can tell the modern reader about religion, rhetoric and historiography of ancient Rome. A contemporary of Jesus Christ, Maximus' work can also reveal the prevalent attitudes and beliefs of the ruling class that caused the persecution of early Christians.

Hans-Friedrich Mueller is Assistant Professor of Classics, University of Florida.