by Christopher B. Zeichmann
Pluto Press
9/20/2025, paperback
SKU: 9780745350394
A groundbreaking history of radically democratic societies in antiquity
When you think of Ancient Greece and Rome, what do you imagine? The Acropolis and the Colosseum? Perhaps the philosophy of Plato and Aristotle, and the rule of the Caesars? This well-trodden history of great thinkers, military leaders, and early state formation in the classical world enthralls us still, but it tells only half the story...
Radical Antiquity takes you on a journey in search of anarchy, statelessness, and social experimentation in the Graeco-Roman world. Sweeping across the Mediterranean from the time of the first Olympic Games until the emergence of Islam, Christopher B. Zeichmann tells the stories of escaped slaves, pirates, and religious sects--all of whom sought a more egalitarian way of life. This history from below brings the experiences of common and marginal people out of obscurity and radically expands our understanding of social and political life in the classical world.
Reviews:
"Despite humanity's egalitarian origins, hierarchical societies must depict anarchism as chaotic and unworkable. Unearthing the ancient world's anarchist cultures, Zeichmann presents a compelling argument that authority may itself have always been the real aberration. Highly recommended." --Alan Moore, writer, activist, performer
"An inspirational masterpiece. This breathtakingly original account of experiments with anarchy in the ancient world will transform the way you think about the Classical world, about history in general, and about the possibilities for human liberty." --William Arnal, Professor, Department of Religious Studies, University of Regina
"A rigorous, engaging history of communities and movements throughout the ages that resisted dominant ruling orders and organized themselves around more egalitarian principles. This history is essential for anyone seeking to understand the breadth of humanity's yearning for emancipation and solidarity." --Roman A. Montero, author of All Things in Common: The Economic Practices of the Early Christians and Jesus's Manifesto: The Sermon on the Pain
About the Author:
Christoper B. Zeichmann teaches history and religious studies at Toronto Metropolitan University. He is the author of The Roman Army and the New Testament and Queer Readings of the Centurion at Capernaum.