Roman Officers And English Gentlemen

The influence of classical Rome on ancient Britain was highly valued by the late Victorian and Edwardian elites, who used it to shape their ideas of British imperialism and Englishness. This was aided by the collaboration of academics, resulting in a lasting impact on Roman archaeology. Richard Hingley's research delves into this relationship, providing insight into the historical context and evolution of Roman archaeology and its role in discussions of English identity and imperialism. This study is recommended for those interested in Roman archaeology, ancient history, colonial studies, and historiography.

The impact of classical Rome on ancient Britain, as perceived by the late Victorian and Edwardian elites, was a resource of immense contemporary political value. The images it produced helped to define the idea and practice of British imperialism, and the very concept of Englishness . Academics colluded in this process and this created a legacy in Roman archaeology which persists to the present day. Richard Hingley's work explores this relationship. His thorough examination of late Victorian and Edwardian writings on Rome and the ancient Britons illuminates the historical context and development of Roman archaeology, and simultaneously makes a contribution to the debates on English identity and imperialism. This landmark study should be useful reading for scholars and students in Roman archaeology, ancient history, colonial studies and historiography.