This is a characteristically trenchant and persuasive critique from Jane Webster, who has done more than most to persuade Roman archaeologists to engage with comparative and postcolonial perspectives (Webster 1997; 2001; 2003; 2005 are required readings). Yet, as she argues, despite some notable theoretical advances in the last decade or so the study of the Roman past still remains hidebound within classificatory and descriptive categories. The result of this is that we remain far better at delineating our subject than at interpreting it – especially where we enter territory that is not well served by supplementary sources (such as texts or epigraphy). However, the problems that she has identified with regard to the archaeology of slavery apply with equal force in many other areas where the material culture is ambiguous or discrepant. Thus, while I find myself in strong agreement with much of what she says, I would like to pose a series of points for further reflection.