Stage 34 Culture Freedmen and Freedwomen

What was very unusual about the status of freedmen in Roman Society?

Freedmen could become Roman Citizens.

In what way was a freedman's name changed when the person was free?

Three names: the first two came from the name of his ex-master.

List four privileges the freedman now enjoyed.

- vote in elections,
- make business agreements which would be valid in law,
- get married,
- save up money and buy his slave fiance out of slavery and marry her legally.

What limitations were there for a freedman? What was a freedwoman not allowed to do?

Could not become a senator or an eques or stand as a candidate in election. A freedwoman could not marry a senator.

What five obligations might a cliens be expected to fulfill for his patronus?

leave money to his patron in his will,
forbidden to harm his patron,
work a certain number of days or pay money,
show respect,
attend him on public occasions

List five things a patronus might do for his cliens.

help with the sportula distributed at the salutatio,
pay for funeral,
guardian of his children,
help with funds to start a new life,
mutual help.

Describe Pliny's treatment of his freedman Zosimus.

Kindness and affection

What evidence about freedmen and freedwomen do the four tombstones cited in the passage give?

They had very strong relationships.

In what basic financial way would freeing a slave benefit the owner?

No longer have to provide their food, clothes, and home.

List crafts or skills that freedmen might have.

craftsman, teacher, musician, secretary, accountant, trade, banking.

Why do some freedmen enjoy substatial success?

There is plenty of demand for their special services.

Describe two examples of very successful freedmen, one pair from Pompeii, and an individual from literature.

The Vetti Brothers launched business in Pompeii, t
The Trimalchio had a large manor and were millionaire

Nevertheless, what disadvantages might a freedman suffer?

prejudice and social inferiority

What social success of Horace did people envy?

his friendship with Maecenas.

In what way did Horace praise both his father and Maecenas, his patron?

giving him the intellectual and moral training which won him a place in Maecena's circle as well as his social fairness

Whart special privilege did only freedmen enjoy?

Take up priesthood

Explain the terms seviri Caesaris and liberti Augusti.

slaves and freedmen.

Explain the terms a libellis, ab epistulis, and a rationibus.

Domitian's secretary, freedmen of the emperor in charge of correspondence, accountant

What position did Epaphroditus hold?

Domitian's secretary

Who was Pallas? How had he been rewarded?

Rewarded the Ornamenta Praetoria (Honary praetorship)

Describe Pliny's reaction to the inscription recording Pallas' honors.

Furious