Having
Abstract
Through the case of a single intaglio found at a site in Northumberland, just north of the Roman frontier, this chapter challenges the view that consumption by the poor is about use: the imperative that the poor need to use, put to use, and use up the little they have. Combined with a reading of curse tablets from Roman Britain, a case is made for seeing possession instead as a capability in and of itself: something to be sought, valued, and treasured, even for those living precariously.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Classical Antiquity Studies
Ancient and Medieval Archaeology Studies
Historical and Cultural Archaeology Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Cambridge University Press eBooks
- Pages
- 26–70
- Publication date
- 6 March 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter