Unit 7 - Etruscan and Roman Art

Etruscans

A civilization that dominated the Italian peninsula during the 6th century, known for their bronze casting and emphasis on the afterlife.

Tuscan order

A variation of the Doric order with a base upon its shaft, developed by the Etruscans.

Divination

A practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown, often included in Etruscan religion.

Plebian

The lower class in Roman society, in contrast to the patricians.

Verism

An art style of the Romans that valued realism, especially in the depiction of wrinkles and age to communicate wisdom.

Roman arch

A round architectural form widely used by Romans, although not developed by them.

Pax Romana

A period of Roman peace and stability established during Augustus's rule.

Contrapposto

A classical art pose in which one part of the body is turned in opposition to another part, often associated with Greek art.

Flavians

A dynasty of Roman emperors that followed the Julian-Claudian dynasty, notable for restoring verism in art.

Colosseum

A large amphitheater in Rome used for public spectacles, including gladiatorial contests.

Arch of Titus

An honorary arch in Rome commissioned by Titus to commemorate the sacking of Jerusalem.

High Imperial Period

A time of prosperity in Rome characterized by the reigns of Trajan and Hadrian.

Basilica Ulpia

An administrative space in the Imperial Forum of Trajan used for legal functions.

Column of Trajan

A monumental column that commemorates Trajan's victories in the Dacian Wars, featuring spiral reliefs.

Pantheon

A temple in Rome dedicated to the gods, commissioned by Trajan.

Tetrarchy

A system of governance established by Diocletian dividing the Roman Empire into four regions.

Basilica Nova

A large public building in Rome commissioned by Maxentius.

Hellenistic influence

The incorporation of Greek artistic and cultural elements into Roman society, notably under Hadrian.

Diocletian

The Roman Emperor who restored stability through autocratic rule and division of the empire.

Anarchy in Rome

A period following the assassination of the last Severan emperor marked by chaotic leadership and instability.

Political propaganda

Artistic expressions designed to promote the political ideals and achievements of rulers.

Cultural Identity of Rome

The shared beliefs, values, and practices that developed through Roman history, influenced by both Hellenism and paganism.

Christianity as state religion

The designation of Christianity by Constantine as the official religion of the Roman Empire.

Fall of the Roman Empire

A complex decline influenced by internal strife, economic troubles, and the rise of Christianity and barbarian invasions.

Geometric abstractions in art

A shift in artistic style during the Late Empire towards severe forms emphasizing power rather than individual likeness.

House-shaped funerary urns

Urns created by the Etruscans that resembled homes, reflecting their valuing of domestic life.

Mud-brick tombs

Tombs constructed by the Etruscans featuring colorful imagery of the afterlife.

Judio-Claudian dynasty

The dynasty that ruled Rome before the rise of the Flavians, ending with the suicide of Nero.

Military expansion

Policies and actions aimed at expanding Roman territory and influence during various periods.

Artistic contributions of Hadrian

Hadrian’s efforts to integrate Hellenistic elements into Roman culture through architecture and aesthetics.

Cultural Roman Identity

The unique characteristics that define Roman culture and distinguish it from others, established over centuries.

Mosaics

Artworks created from small pieces of colored stone or glass, prevalent in Roman households.

Caesar

The title used by Roman emperors, originating from Julius Caesar, symbolizing authority and power.

Gnostic influences

Philosophical and religious ideas that opposed traditional pagan beliefs, rising during the Late Empire.

Economic decline in Rome

The reduction in economic stability contributing to the fall of the Roman Empire.

Hellenism

The spread of Greek culture and influence that affected many aspects of Roman life and art.

Titus

The Roman Emperor known for completing the Colosseum and commissioning the Arch of Titus.

Soldier Emperors

A series of Roman emperors during the 3rd century who were often military leaders.

Civic buildings in Rome

Structures built for public administration, legal functions, and civil life during the Roman Empire.

Emperorship of Augustus

The establishment of Augustus as the first emperor of Rome, representing a significant shift from the republic.

Cultural decline

A period in which Roman cultural practices diminished due to external pressures and internal strife.

Barbarian invasions

Attacks by non-Roman tribes that contributed significantly to the eventual fall of the Roman Empire.

Public spectacles

Events organized for entertainment in public spaces, such as the Colosseum.

Artistic propagandism

The use of art to promote political messages and glorify rulers in Roman society.

Cultural exchange

The sharing and integration of cultural practices between the Romans and the civilizations they interacted with.

Decline of paganism

The reduction in the practice of traditional Roman religious beliefs, particularly in the Late Empire.

Engineering advancements

Innovations developed during the Roman Empire that contributed to infrastructure such as roads and aqueducts.

Civic pride

The sense of belonging and pride among citizens regarding their city and its achievements.

Political unrest

Periods of conflict and instability within Roman governance, particularly during transitions between emperors.

Art as political tool

The strategic use of art to communicate political messages and reinforce power structures in Rome.

Roman realism

An artistic approach focusing on depicting subjects with accuracy and detail, prominent in Roman art.

Egyptian influences

Cultural and artistic elements derived from ancient Egypt that impacted Roman art and religion.

Architectural marvels

Impressive constructions, such as temples and forums, that symbolize Roman engineering prowess.

Italian peninsula

The geographical region in Italy where ancient Roman civilization emerged and developed.