ПОСОЛЬСКОЕ ПРАВО И ПОЛОЖЕНИЕ ПОСЛОВ В РИМЕ В VIII – III ВВ. ДО Н. Э.
AMBASSADORIAL LAW AND STATUS OF AMBASSADORS IN ROME DURING THE 8TH – 3RD CENTURIES BC

Summary/Abstract: The paper is devoted to the study of ambassadorial law and the status of ambassadors in Ancient Rome during the 8th – 3rd centuries BC. The methodology of the paper is based on the principles of historicism, i.e., all events are considered in their historical dependence. The general principles of historiographical analysis are used: identification of the research issue, analysis of theoretical and methodological perspectives. The formation of ambassadorial law and the status of Roman ambassadors in other communities and states, as well as those of foreign ambassadors in Rome are examined. Firstly, the legal regulations enabling the activities of ambassadors in Rome are analyzed. Secondly, terms referring to ambassadors in Rome are considered. Thirdly, it is discussed how ambassadors were sent and received in Rome. The activities of ambassadors were regulated by ambassadorial law (ius legatorum) and law of nations (ius gentium). There were three terms to refer to ambassadors in Rome depending on the status of the messenger: legates (legati), speakers (oratores), and envoys of peace (caduceatores). The basic rituals developed in the Royal period, changes occurred in the period of the Republic when real power was in the hands of the Senate. The position of embassies was significantly dependent on from which state they came – friendly or hostile. In the first case, they were allowed into the city. In the second case, ambassadors were placed outside the city walls and their movement was limited. The obtained results are important for reconstruction of Roman diplomatic activity.

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