Assistant Professor of Classics Chris Erdman was invited by the University of Kansas Department of Classics for a two-day visit on September 16–17, where he delivered a public lecture and participated in classroom discussions with KU students and faculty.

Erdman’s lecture, titled Obstructing the People in the Late Roman Republic, was held in the Big 12 Room of the Kansas Union. Drawing on his expertise in Roman law and political culture, Erdman explored how obstructionist tactics were used by Roman elites to influence legislative outcomes, and how ordinary citizens responded to and resisted these maneuvers. His talk highlighted the performative nature of obstruction and the dynamic role of the Roman people in shaping political discourse.

In addition to the lecture, Erdman visited several undergraduate and graduate classes, engaging with students on topics ranging from Roman voting practices to the material culture of lawmaking. His visit was part of KU’s commitment to fostering scholarly exchange and introducing students to current research in the field.

Erdman is currently working on a monograph examining voting culture in Roman legislative assemblies and has published widely on Roman law, epigraphy, and political institutions.