I'm delighted to say that the group leadership jumped in with both feet when it was suggested that this group, in particular, be a sponsor for the upcoming visit of Dr. Elaine Fantham to Ancientworlds, May 14-20, 2006. It's a classic fit, since one of Dr. Fantham's best-known works is the ground-breaking study on classical women's studies, "Women in the Classical World."

As Marduk and I were discussing, what I would hope to see is that members with expertise and interest in this group will help us with questions and comments for Dr. Fantham's response in the week she will be visiting. It's also a great way to raise the profile of this particular group!

Although Dr. Fantham has been a scholar in many aspects of classical Roman studies, it's particularly interesting to me that we will be able to visit with her because her latest book, about Julia, daughter of Augustus, is due out next month (see links below). Julia is certainly one of the hallmark lives of ancient Roman women, but until now, there's been, surprisingly, no major work on her life. So let's get the discussion rolling!

The discussion will be held at The Symposion Series thread.

Women in the Classical World: Image and Text

Julia Augusti: The Emperor's Daughter