Etruscan and Roman Culture

Flashcards covering key concepts in Etruscan and Roman culture from archaeological finds to political propaganda.

What is an ossuary?

A funereal urn used to hold bone fragments or human remains after cremation.

What does the Latin word 'ossa' refer to?

Bones.

What design style is featured on Etruscan ossuaries?

Proto-geometric designs reminiscent of later Greek pottery.

What societal shift does the Etruscan ossuary signify?

A move from subsistence living towards a more developed artistic class.

How does the Etruscan alphabet reflect their culture?

It has Greek-like characteristics, indicating engagement with Greek culture.

Where are Etruscan artifacts primarily found?

In graves, due to their preservation.

What does Hellenization refer to in the context of Roman culture?

The influence of Greek culture on Roman society.

What architectural elements indicate Greek influence on Roman temples?

Corinthian-style columns and circular shapes.

What does the Togatus Barberini statue represent?

The Roman practice of ancestor veneration.

What did the toga represent in Roman society?

The garment of sophisticated Roman citizens, distinguishing them from non-elites.

What significant event did Marius receive a triumph for?

His successful campaigns in the Jugurthine and Cimbrian Wars.

What symbolizes Marius's military achievements?

His triumph, represented by a four-horse chariot procession.

What is the significance of coins in Roman culture?

They were used as monumenta to celebrate and preserve a leader's achievements.

What inscription is found on a coin minted by Faustus Sulla?

Sulla Felix (Sulla the Lucky/Blessed).

What is the significance of Cato the Elder's bust?

It reflects Roman portraiture's realism and Cato's conservative ideals.

What does the term 'homo novus' mean?

A 'new man' who is the first in his family to hold a high political office.

What was Sulla's claim in relation to Jugurtha?

He claimed to have secured peace through diplomacy before Marius's involvement.

How did Faustus Sulla use coinage as political propaganda?

To challenge Marius's narrative and showcase the Sulla family's prestige.

What crisis in Roman governance did Caesar's declaration of 'Dictator Perpetuo' address?

The ambiguity of the emperor's power.

What was the significance of the Temple to Venus Genetrix?

It legitimized Caesar's power and claimed divine lineage.

What artistic features does Augustus's statue include?

Elements depicting cosmic entities and military conquests.

What does the Lex de Imperio Vespasiani formalize?

The legal powers of the emperor.

What does 'Damnatio Memoriae' mean?

A procedure to erase a person's memory from public record.

What was the significance of the Temple of Pax?

Built by Vespasian to promote peace and associate with Augustus.

What does the coin featuring Nero and Agrippina signify?

Agrippina's political influence and status.

What does the statue of Hadrian stepping on a Jewish boy symbolize?

Roman dominance and suppression of revolts in Judea.

What does the Optimus Princeps coin celebrate?

Trajan as the best emperor, highlighting admiration from the Senate and people.

How is Agrippina represented in her statue?

As a priestess, emphasizing her role in promoting the imperial cult.

What was the message behind the reclamation of military standards by Augustus?

It symbolized military success and the peace he brought.

What did the intricate designs on Augustus's breastplate represent?

Cosmic order and military conquests.

Why was Julius Caesar's temple significant?

It reinforced his claim to divine right and legitimacy.

What does the term 'propaganda' imply in the context of Roman coins?

Using visual imagery to assert claims and influence public perception.

What does the symbolic representation of the imperial family in Vespasian's temple imply?

The promotion of peace and stability post-chaos.

What does the phrase 'beneficial ideology' refer to concerning Vespasian?

His aim to ensure the best for the people of Rome.

In what historical context was the coin celebrating Marius minted?

At the height of his power before political turmoil.

How does the depiction of Agrippina on coins challenge traditional norms?

It was unprecedented for another figure to be featured alongside the emperor.

What does Marius’s triumph symbolize in Roman culture?

The display of military success and personal prestige.

What is the implication of the phrase 'pax augusta'?

It refers to the peace established during Augustus's reign.

How did the Roman Senate react to Domitian’s legacy?

Through Damnatio Memoriae, attempting to erase his public legacy.

What cultural practice does the Togatus Barberini exemplify?

Ancestor veneration in Roman society.

What does the temple's opulent design foreshadow about Augustus?

His ambition to transform Rome’s physical and political landscape.

How is the theme of authenticity portrayed in Cato the Elder's bust?

By showing physical imperfections like wrinkles and big noses.

What does the ceremonial aspect of Roman coins reveal about society?

Coins served as a medium for propaganda and communication of public messages.

What does Agrippina’s inclusion on the coin with Nero signify about her role?

Her strategic political influence during his rule.

What architectural style did temples reflect during the 2nd century BCE?

Incorporation of Greek architectural elements.