Blurb:

In Chapter 2 I will theorize about the transformation process of pre-Roman towns into their Roman successors with colonial or municipal status. I will propose a new theoretical framework to describe Roman urbanism. This framework will explain the different aspects of Roman urbanism and help to better understand the transformation of town and country into their Early Imperial phase. After describing the most important gentrification theories, I will apply them to Roman towns, using an explanatory model, which helps filter the evidence and provide a special lens for looking at structures and changes in Roman towns. I shall also concentrate on five main elements for Roman gentrification theory: (1) the presence of a sizeable group of affluent people, (2) a functioning property and rental market, (3) a shift in employment and diversification of professions, (4) a professionalization of trades and crafts, (5) the locational preferences of the elite and their dependents and their investment in domestic and public architecture (urban renewal), public display and forms of entertainment. I will also investigate evidence of rural gentrification.