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G087919N#54969803

Abstract:

The papyrus archives of Greco-Roman Egypt provide a unique opportunity to examine the processes by which data on households and their real estate was gathered, edited, and transmitted. In particular, the archives demonstrate the initial collection and organization of information at the village level, as well as the subsequent conveyance of that information to higher administrative centres, such as the capital of Alexandria. Moreover, it is possible to identify the modifications that were introduced, as the reports were not always reproduced verbatim from one level to another, resulting in new summary reports. In addition, the methodologies employed to document this information, as well as the techniques utilized to validate the accuracy of transmitted data, are briefly discussed. The most extensive data collection and transmission was conducted for the purpose of taxation, with the objective of benefiting the government. In conclusion, the data collection and transmission for taxation purposes will be compared with the collection of data for the protection of private matters and initiatives, including the registration of real estate ownership and of complaints by individuals (petitions).