This book is based on an in-depth filmed conversation between Howard Burton and Andrew Wallace-Hadrill, Director of Research and Honorary Professor of Roman Studies in the Faculty of Classics at the University of Cambridge. This wide-ranging conversation covers his fascinating archeological work done in Herculaneum and Pompeii, the politics of excavation, and life in the ancient Roman world. This carefully-edited book includes an introduction, Historical Value, and questions for discussion at the end of each chapter: I. What We Know - History and geology II. Letting Sleeping Dogs Lie - Exploring historical motivations III. Exploring Roman Society - Housing, slavery, citizenship and status IV. Herculaneum vs. Pompeii - Different eyes on the past V. The Future of the Past - Excavation, preservation and spending effectively About Ideas Roadshow Conversations: Presented in an accessible, conversational format, Ideas Roadshow books not only explore frontline academic research but also reveal the inspirations and personal journeys behind the research.