A geography of luxury runs through the literature of Imperial Rome--Persica the golden peaches whose Latin name pinpointed Persia as the source of their world-wide migration--Caecubum, a fine, rare, dry red wine from Campanian vineyards that were once prized, afterwards neglected; these flavors were identified, evaluated and tasted in a single word.

Empire of Pleasures presents an evocative survey of the sensory culture of the Roman Empire, showing how the Romans themselves depicted and visualized their food, wine and entertainments in literature and in art. This fascinating journey envelops the reader in a world devoted to the titillation and fulfillment of the senses, recapturing the Empire as it was sensed and imagined by those who lived in it. At the same time, Andrew Dalby creates a compelling new approach to the work of many of the best known Roman poets.

With numerous illustrations, and recipes to conjure up the luxurious flavors and aromas of Roman literature, Empires of Pleasures will be welcomed by anyone with an interest in classical literature and culture.