The Gritty Underworld of Rome and Roman Imperialism

The Mother-in-Law and Relationships

  • Bacchis: A courtesan desiring a monogamous relationship with Pamphilus (a male citizen).
  • Pamphilus: Despite marrying Philumena (a citizen neighbor), continues his relationship with Bacchis, indicating a break of his vows.
  • Premarital relations noted: Philumena and Pamphilus had consensual premarital sex.

The Brothers and Social Structure

  • Pimps and Sex Workers: Introduces characters from the underworld of Roman society, including Bacchis who is a lute girl.
  • Slaves as Decision Makers: Highlighting the role of slaves in managing affairs in the household and relationships.
  • Citizen Daughter: Dilemma of citizen daughters without dowry or virginity, facing bleak marriage prospects.
  • The Eunuch and Pamphila: Pamphila, daughter of an Athenian citizen, captured by slave traders, sold to a courtesan, illustrating a cycle of exploitation.

Gender Perceptions and Masculinity in Rome

  • Women's bodies perceived as colder and drier than men.
  • Men's Physicality: Desirable traits outlined for a “real” man, including public speaking, controlled masculinity, and adequate physical fitness.
    • Key Traits:
    • Moderation of Masculinity: Avoiding extremes of femininity or hyper-masculinity.
    • Physical Appearance: A moderate belly indicates prosperity; over-muscled bodies seen as lower class.
    • Sexual Control: Ability to manage sexual desires seen as a mark of manhood.
    • Rejection of Greek Masculinity: Efforts to distinguish Roman manhood from that of conquered Greeks.

Roman Imperialism and Judaea

  • Roman Imperial Cult: Distinction between provinces where declaring oneself a god and worshipping was common versus Rome itself.
  • David’s Kingdom: Peak of Jewish political independence before splits into Israel and Judah.
  • Solomon’s Temple: Central place of communication with God, destroyed due to Roman actions.
  • Babylonian Exile: Central event leading to shifts in religious practices and beliefs among the Jewish people.

Historical Timeline of Judaea and Roman Engagement

  • Major Events Overview:
    • 586-527 BCE: Babylonian conquest and subsequent exiles leading to new religious constructs based on prayer instead of sacrifices.
    • 175 BCE: Revolt of Judas Maccabeus leading to the formation of the Hasmonean state after plundering by Antiochus IV.
    • 64 BCE: Beginning of Roman interference under Pompey.
    • Herod: Declared king by the Roman Senate, noted for extensive building programs and functioning as a client king of Rome.

The Jewish War and Aftermath

  • 66-70 CE: Jewish revolt against Roman rule; the resulting siege of Jerusalem and subsequent destruction illustrate extreme tensions.
  • Roman Governance: Post-Herod, Jewish society became embroiled in divisions among various sects that led to rebellion and strife.

Roman Religion and Practices

  • Key Roman Concepts:
    • Pietas: Duty to gods, family, and state, emphasizing correct practices (orthopraxy) over beliefs (orthodoxy).
  • Household Gods: Importance of Penates and Lares, emphasizing ancestor worship and domestic piety.
  • Sacred Practices: Importance of rituals and offerings, detailing specific rites like the First Fruit Offering to ensure agricultural prosperity.

Mystery Religions and Cultural Influences

  • Eleusinian Mysteries: Secretive religious ceremonies promising revelations and afterlife benefits.
  • Cult of Isis: Notable for its resurrection themes originating from Egypt.
  • Cult of Mithras: Appealed to Romans through astronomical significance, presenting a rival to early Christianity.