Guarding grapes and other tales from papyri
Monday, March 24, 2014 - 13:30
in Paleontology & Archaeology
A new article throws light on the perils of produce patrol and more stories from ancient times. The researcher details what he deciphered from a roughly 3-by-5 inch shred of dark brown papyrus dating back to the fourth century. In large, cursive script, the hired guard outlines his labor contract, as well as details from a vineyard guard who was beaten by "violent and rapacious" criminals while attempting to chase them from the vineyard.