Lecture: The Edges of The Roman Empire

History buffs, take note: the Bata Shoe Museum is hosting a fascinating lecture on May 13, 2026, that dives deep into the frontiers of the Roman Empire. Dr. Kate Cooper, the Mirkopoulos Associate Curator of Ancient Greece & Rome at the Royal Ontario Museum, will be leading the discussion.

Exploring the Frontiers We often think of the Roman Empire as a monolithic power, but this lecture explores the complexities of its edges. From the misty reaches of Britain to the deserts of Syria and North Africa, Dr. Cooper will examine how Rome interacted with local cultures, built new cities, and managed the diverse peoples living on its borders. It's a great opportunity to get a more nuanced look at how an empire actually functions on the ground.

Practical Details The lecture runs from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Bata Shoe Museum on Bloor Street West. Your ticket includes museum access during the event, so you can take some time to explore the current exhibits before or after the talk. Given the venue's location in the Annex, it’s an easy spot to grab a coffee or a drink nearby afterward to discuss what you've learned.