FASTI
A Blog Marking the Weeks with History, Fiction—and the Occasional Shameless Plug
Rome’s Most Underwhelming Emperor
The Emperor Jovian enjoyed a reign of eight months that was only distinguished by a humiliating peace treaty—and an absurdly mundane death.
The Bona Dea Scandal
A reckless young aristocrat, a goddess’s forbidden rites, and a seduction scheme that went spectacularly wrong.
Ancient Rome’s Favorite Condiment
Pretty much everything you’d want—and probably not want—to know about Rome’s love affair with funky fermented fish sauce.
Special Edition: America’s Birthday & Rome’s Secular Games
As America marks its 250th, take a look back at how Rome celebrated its own milestones—with sacred rites, dubious math, and one very expensive rhinoceros.
Review: “The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller
An intimate, humanizing retelling of Homer’s Iliad through the eyes of one of its overshadowed figures.
When the Praetorian Guard Auctioned Off the Throne
Rome wasn’t built in a day—but in 193 C.E., it was sold in one afternoon.
Historical Novel Society North America 2027 Conference Announced
HNSNA has announced its next conference will be held June 17—19, 2027 in Pittsburgh, PA.
Caesar and Cato’s Very Intimate Enmity
One of Roman history’s bitterest rivalries was more personal than many realize.
