W. Warde Fowler 
The Roman Festivals of the Period of the Republic 
An Introduction to the Study of the Religion of the Romans

In ‘The Roman Festivals of the Period of the Republic’ by W. Warde Fowler, the author delves into the intricate details of the religious festivals celebrated during the Roman Republic. Fowler meticulously examines the origins, practices, and significance of each festival, shedding light on the religious beliefs and cultural practices of the ancient Romans. The book is written in a scholarly yet accessible style, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in Roman history and religious studies. Fowler’s detailed analysis of the festivals provides a comprehensive understanding of the religious life of the Roman Republic. This book is a must-read for scholars, students, and enthusiasts of ancient Roman culture and religion.

About the author

William Warde Fowler (1847–1921) was a distinguished English historian and ornithologist, best known for his contributions to the understanding of ancient Roman religion and culture. His scholarly approach is most evident in his seminal work ‘The Roman Festivals of the Period of the Republic’ (1899), which remains a crucial resource for students of Roman history and religious practices. Fowler’s meticulous research and insightful analysis of the Roman calendar and its festivals set a high standard for historic rigor and cultural interpretation. His literary style is characterized by clarity and an attention to detail, which has helped to illuminate the complex interrelationships between Roman religion, politics, and social life. Educated at Lincoln College, Oxford, Fowler’s academic career was marked by a profound dedication to the classics, evident in his lectureship posts and his other influential works such as ‘Social Life at Rome in the Age of Cicero’ (1908) and ‘Religious Experience of the Roman People’ (1911). As an ornithologist, Fowler’s observations paralleled his historical interests, often reflecting a keen understanding of the natural world and its intertwined relationship with human society. Fowler’s expertise extended to his role as a tutor, where he fostered an appreciation for classical studies among many pupils, some of whom would go on to make significant contributions to the field.