Projecting The Past

This volume analyzes the ways in which the Hollywood and Italian film industries have resurrected ancient Rome to address present concerns. Through case studies, the book explores cinema's use of the past to excavate present issues of nationhood, colonialism, gender and cinema itself. Brought vividly to life on screen, the myth of ancient Rome resonates through modern popular culture. Projectingthe Past examines how the cinematic traditions of Hollywood and Italy have resurrected ancient Rome to address the concerns of the present. The book engages contemporary debates about the nature of the classical tradition, definitions of history, and the place of the past in historical film.