Uriel I. Simonsohn, Ph.D. 2008

The family stands at the centre of the present volume. Its networks of kinship and influence are a central tenet of Late Antique communities. The relations within the family and between the family and the community occupy an important place in Late Antique law, theology, prose, poetry and art. The institution of family has received different interpretations in the various geographical and chronological scenes discussed by this volume, yet there are also numerous parallels. The family is often seen as a miniature community, anchored to a vast network of values and shared perceptions. As such, the community opens a unique window into Late Antique history. Understanding the family not only brings the differences and similarities between the various communities into sharper relief; it provides an in depth look at the spiritual and material world of Late Antique societies. The contributions to this volume represent a broad range of interests, from Jewish, Classical and Byzantine studies to comparative literature, law, and philosophy.