Comp Cultures 12 - Roman History & Culture: Key Figures, Laws, Architecture, and Society

Julius Caesar

A Roman general and statesman whose assassination on the Ides of March marked a turning point in Roman history.

The Ides of March

March 15, the date of Julius Caesar's assassination in 44 BC, which is famously associated with betrayal.

Augustus (Octavian)

The first Roman emperor, who established the Roman Empire after the fall of the Roman Republic.

Marcus Aurelius

A Roman emperor and philosopher known for his writings on Stoicism and his role as a ruler during the height of the Roman Empire.

Structure of the Roman Republic

The Roman Republic was characterized by a complex system of checks and balances among elected officials, including consuls, the Senate, and popular assemblies.

Roles of patricians and plebeians

Patricians were the aristocratic families of Rome, while plebeians were the common people; their struggles for rights led to significant political changes.

Similarities between Roman and U.S. government

Both have a system of checks and balances, separation of powers among branches, and term limits for elected officials.

Causes of social unrest and decline of the republic

Factors included economic inequality, corruption, political infighting, and military challenges.

Women in Rome

Women in Rome had limited rights compared to men, but some could own property and engage in business.

The Twelve Tables

The earliest attempt to create a code of law in Rome, established to protect the rights of citizens and ensure fairness.

Why the Twelve Tables were created

To provide a written legal code that would be accessible to all citizens and reduce the power of the patricians.

Who demanded the Twelve Tables

The plebeians demanded the Twelve Tables to ensure legal protection against arbitrary decisions by patrician judges.

Areas of life covered by the Twelve Tables

The Twelve Tables addressed issues such as property rights, family law, and legal procedures.

Impact of the Twelve Tables on fairness and legal rights

They established a foundation for legal rights in Rome, promoting the idea that laws should apply equally to all citizens.

Commonly cited causes of the fall of the Roman Empire

Political instability, economic troubles, military challenges, and invasions by barbarian tribes.

Costs of running a large empire

The financial burden of maintaining a vast military, infrastructure, and administration contributed to economic decline.

Pressures from invasions and internal instability

Invasions by groups such as the Visigoths and Vandals, along with civil wars, weakened the empire's ability to defend itself.

The Romance languages

Languages that evolved from Latin, including Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Romanian.

Meaning and importance of SPQR

SPQR stands for 'Senatus Populusque Romanus' (The Senate and People of Rome), symbolizing the authority of the Roman state.

Main ideas of Stoicism

Stoicism emphasizes rationality, self-control, and virtue as a means to achieve a good life, often focusing on accepting fate.

Contributions of Marcus Aurelius

His writings, particularly 'Meditations,' provide insights into Stoic philosophy and the challenges of leadership.

Key architectural features of Roman architecture

Notable features include arches, domes, and columns, which were used to create impressive structures like the Colosseum and Pantheon.

Examples of modern buildings inspired by Rome

Many government buildings, such as the U.S. Capitol and various museums, draw architectural inspiration from Roman designs.

Importance of Roman roads

Roman roads facilitated trade, communication, and military movement, contributing to the empire's cohesion and expansion.

The corvus and its military purpose

The corvus was a boarding device used in naval warfare that allowed Roman soldiers to board enemy ships during battles.

What mosaics reveal about Roman life

Mosaics often depicted daily life, mythology, and social status, providing insights into the culture and values of Roman society.

Meanings of BC and AD

BC stands for 'Before Christ,' while AD stands for 'Anno Domini,' meaning 'in the year of our Lord.'

Differences between the Julian and Gregorian calendars

The Julian calendar had a leap year every four years, while the Gregorian calendar corrected inaccuracies in the Julian system.

How Roman leaders influenced month names

Many months are named after Roman leaders, such as July (Julius Caesar) and August (Augustus).

How geography supported Rome's rise

Rome's location provided access to trade routes, fertile farmland, and natural defenses, facilitating its expansion and prosperity.

How art, architecture, and literature reflect Roman values

These cultural elements often emphasized themes of power, civic duty, and the glory of the state.

How Roman culture was shaped through interactions with other cultures

Rome absorbed and adapted elements from conquered peoples, enriching its own culture through trade, conquest, and diplomacy.