Classical Studies

This thesis analyzes animal husbandry practices for all major farm animals in the ancient Roman Mediterranean, primarily relying upon literary sources to synthesize and clarify the advice of the prominent agricultural writers. Though it approaches the authors on their own terms, it also scrutinizes them in light of modern farming practices. Animal pasturage, feed, housing, breeding, health, and manure management are all considered. Though the work is historical and it acknowledges superstition, it also maintains that ancient authors have knowledge and advice that is not only forgotten to contemporary readers, but useful.