Trouble at the Baths

This article is concerned with the seemingly common problem of the theft of personal belongings at the baths. It is argued, based on a close reading of epigraphic evidence and legal texts that, while theft was seemingly an ever-present concern, bathers could employ various legal strategies to ensure the safety of their personal belongings. An analysis of the legal rules and available legal remedies suggests that bathers were not completely without legal recourse. In addition, there is evidence that the Roman state sought to alleviate the situation through the introduction of various public-order offences.