A study of the construction of new temples in the Roman Republic, a process which illuminates key features of both their political and religious systems. It offers an analysis of the relationship between the individual and the community, both human and divine, and their responsibilities toward one another.
The book examines in detail each of the three main stages in the construction of a new temple: the vow, the placing of a contract, and the dedication. Special attention is paid to the ability of a Roman magistrate to enter into building obligations on behalf of the state, and the role of the general's share of the spoils of war, his manubiae.
In contrast to previous studies, this work emphasizes the significant role played by the Roman Senate, and thus offers a new interpretation of the symbolic meaning of this process.

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