This book presents a challenge to the long held view that the predominantly agricultural economies of ancient Greece and Rome were underdeveloped. It shows that the exploitation of natural resources, manufacturing and the building trade all made significant contributions to classical economies. It will be an indispensable resource for those interested in the period.

This landmark study moves the debate on from Moses Finley's seminal work on the ancient economy and discusses new evidence and approaches to the subject. It will be an indispensable resource for those interested in the classical economy.