CLA 2103 Lec 3

What are the three Etruscan kings from the Tarquin dynasty that historians believe were actually real people?

Lucius Tarquinius Priscus, Lucius Tarquinius Superbus, and Lucius Tarquinius Sextus

What major structure did Lucius Tarquinius Priscus initially mark out and build?

The Circus Maximus

Why is Livy's description of the early Circus Maximus considered an anachronism?

He describes a colossal structure with 12-foot scaffolding, which the early Roman state lacked the manufacturing power to build (it was likely just a field)

Who was Lucius Tarquinius Sextus?

The son of King Superbus who raped Lucretia

How did Sextus successfully coerce Lucretia?

He threatened to kill her and a slave, staging their bodies to frame her for infamous adultery

Why did the threat of adultery work on Lucretia when the threat of death did not?

Rome was a shame culture; the fake adultery would bring permanent public shame and dishonor to her entire family

Why did Lucretia commit suicide after the assault?

To restore her honor and avoid the public shame placed upon her, establishing the Roman ideal of the "noble suicide"

Who swore a vengeance pact against the Tarquins after pulling the knife from Lucretia's chest?

L. Junius Brutus (alongside Collatinus)

How did Brutus and the rebels overthrow the Etruscan monarchy?

They beat King Superbus back to Rome and locked him out of the city gates, forcing him into exile

What is the Pomerium?

The sacred boundary line that separated the protected, sacred interior of a newly founded city from the outside world

How did religion keep early Roman politicians in check?

The Roman state was theocratic; political figures had religious roles, so acting outside their duties was considered sacrilege

What nearby city was considered Rome's arch-enemy during the early Republic?

Veii

What major Roman military celebration evolved from Etruscan funerary processions?

The Roman Triumph

What was the primary role of Etruscan women in society compared to Roman women?

They owned property and were in public life, but could not hold public office