The mask of the parasite
Subtitle: a pathology of Roman patronage
By: Cynthia Damon.
Publisher: University of Michigan Press
Published: 1997
Place of publication: Ann Arbor
Language: eng
Number of pages: 307
Subjects: Patron and client -- Rome.; Latin literature -- History and criticism.; Authors and patrons -- Rome.; Literary patrons -- Rome.; Oratory, Ancient.; Rome -- Social conditions.
Description: In The Mask of the Parasite Cynthia Damon brings unique insight to the study of patronage in ancient Rome, with particular emphasis on the friction that developed in the operation of the patronage system in Roman society.

The Mask of the Parasite is a fascinating study of the intersection of literature and society in ancient Rome. However, neither the parasite nor patronage is confined to the Roman world. Students of classical studies as well as students of literature and cultural studies will find this to be a work of utmost importance in understanding these complex issues of human interaction.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 277-287) and indexes.
Based on the author's thesis (doctoral--Stanford University, 1990).