Moderation, refined luxury, or extravagance? Fattened animals and ancient Roman norms and values

Abstract

Discussions concerning ancient Roman conspicuous consumption are normally related to extravagant preparation of dishes or consumption of exotic foodstuffs. This paper argues that serving and eating fattened animals was a more suitable mode of conspicuous consumption for the Roman elite of the early Principate than has been previously argued. The sources suggest that consumption of fattened animals could be a way to achieve a sought-after balance between norms and values relating to moderation, refined luxury, and extravagance. Why? Fattening expressed notions of control of nature and was connected with consumption of local foods. As such, consumption of fattened animals articulated aspects of the sense of cultural identity that is referred to as Romanitas. Appreciation of these features contributes to our understanding of popularity of consuming fattened animals among the Roman elite.