Roman Farm Management The Treatises of Cato and Varro   By: Fairfax Harrison (1869-1938)

Roman Farm Management: The Treatises of Cato and Varro by Fairfax Harrison presents an insightful and comprehensive exploration of agricultural practices in ancient Rome. The book offers a valuable translation and analysis of two influential treatises penned by two prominent agricultural writers of the era: Cato the Elder and Marcus Terentius Varro.

One of the highlights of this book is its meticulous translation of the original Latin texts, which allows readers to fully appreciate the depth and nuances of Cato and Varro's writings. Harrison's fluid translation captures the essence of the ancient texts while maintaining readability for modern audiences. Additionally, the extensive footnotes and annotations throughout the book provide helpful explanations and further context, ensuring a clear understanding of the agricultural concepts and techniques discussed.

Harrison skillfully intertwines these ancient works, highlighting their similarities and differences, while illuminating the key aspects of Roman farm management. The author's expertise in Roman history and agricultural practices shines through, as he provides valuable commentary and analysis on topics such as soil preparation, crop rotation, livestock management, and even the business aspects of farming.

Moreover, the book does an excellent job of situating these treatises within their historical and cultural contexts, enabling readers to comprehend the significance of the agricultural practices to the Roman society of that time. The detailed introduction sets the stage for a deeper exploration, providing historical background information, as well as discussing the philosophical underpinnings that guided the Roman approach to farming.

Throughout the book, Harrison successfully conveys the timeless wisdom in Cato and Varro's writings. While these texts are rooted in ancient times, their insights on sustainable farming, efficient land use, and the relationship between farmers and their lands bear significant relevance in today's world. This reminds us of the enduring value of ancient knowledge and the lessons it can offer us today.

In terms of readability, the book strikes a balance between academic rigor and accessibility. While the subject matter may seem niche to some readers, Harrison's clear and engaging writing style keeps the content engaging and comprehensive. However, it is worth noting that some sections, particularly those dealing with specific Roman legal terms or in-depth technical discussions, may be challenging for readers unfamiliar with ancient Roman agriculture.

In conclusion, Roman Farm Management: The Treatises of Cato and Varro by Fairfax Harrison is an exceptional contribution to the field of agricultural history. It offers a valuable insight into the ancient practices and philosophies surrounding Roman farming. Harrison's meticulous translation, insightful commentary, and contextual analysis make this book a must-read for anyone interested in agriculture, ancient history, or the development of sustainable farming practices.

First Page:

The present editor made the acquaintance of Cato and Varro standing at a book stall on the Quai Voltaire in Paris, and they carried him away in imagination, during a pleasant half hour, not to the vineyards and olive yards of Roman Italy, but to the blue hills of a far distant Virginia where the corn was beginning to tassel and the fat cattle were loafing in the pastures. Subsequently, when it appeared that there was then no readily available English version of the Roman agronomists, this translation was made, in the spirit of old Piero Vettori, the kindly Florentine scholar, whose portrait was painted by Titian and whose monument may still be seen in the Church of Santo Spirito: in the preface of his edition of Varro he says that he undertook the work, not for the purpose of displaying his learning, but to aid others in the study of an excellent author. Victorius was justified by his scholarship and the present editor has no such claim to attention: he, therefore, makes the confession frankly (to anticipate perhaps such criticism as Bentley's "a very pretty poem, Mr... Continue reading book >>