This is an original study of the role and rituals of death in Roman civilization. Death never ceases to fascinate the living and in Roman society, where the mortality was high, people were forced to confront the brevity of life and the impact of death. What did death mean and symbolise to the Romans? What does 'Roman death' tell the modern reader about ancient society? This accessible and engaging book ranges from suicides, funeral feasts, necromancy and Hades to mourning, epitaphs and posthumous damnation.