Why Cato did not want to feed the sick slaves, or Some observations on the Roman economy of slavery

The article is devoted to the study of the Second Chapter “Agriculture” of Cato the Elder. The author pays the main attention to the advice of Cato not to give full rations to sick slaves, which became widely known thanks to the biographical work of Plutarch. Not denying the possibility the existence of such a practice, the author attempts to identify its roots, originating in the traditions of traditional medicine, which is reflected in the 126-157 chapters of Cato’s “Agriculture”. In particular, attention is drawn to the author's repeated mention that medication should be taken on an empty stomach, for which Cato consistently uses the Latin term “ieiunus”. In particular, the author draws attention to the fact that Cato often mentions that the intake of medicines should be made on a empty stomach, for which the Roman author often uses the Latin term “ieiunus”. In general, the text of Cato’s work reflects work reflects as archaic beliefs and norms, as well as new concepts and values.