Overview of Ancient Rome

Regal Period (753 BCE - 509 BCE)

• Timeframe: Approximately 1100 BCE - 509 BCE

• Characterized by kingship in Rome.

Roman Republic (509 BCE - 31 BCE)

• Establishment followed the abolishment of kingship.

• Introduction of a republic; shared power and checks and balances.

Roman Empire (31 BCE - 476 CE)

• Period initiated by the death of Julius Caesar and subsequent civil wars.

• Transition to imperial rule.

• Etruscans: Influential civilization from Etruria, flourishing from the 10th to 5th centuries BCE.

  • Language: Unique non-Indo-European language.

  • Influence: Significant impact on Roman culture, military, artifacts, and governance. Borrowings included:

  • Toga Praetexta: Purple-lined toga worn by magistrates.

  • Sella Curulis: Magistrate's seat.

  • Fasces: Symbol of authority carried by lictors.

  • Military power extending to ruling Rome around 500 BCE.

Villanovan Period (900 BCE - 700 BCE)

• Early stage of Etruscan civilization marked by archaeological advancements.

• Skilled metalworkers in bronze and iron.

• Shift from Late Bronze Age to Iron Age.

Palatine Hill

• Central of Rome's Seven Hills, believed to be founded by Romulus.

• Habitation confirmed around 1000 BCE - 753 BCE.

• Importance during the Republic as a wealthy residential area.

• Notable sites:

  • House of Romulus: Considered Romulus's home.

  • Temple of Apollo: Built by Augustus.

  • Domus Flavia: Emperor Domitian's palace complex.

  • Horti Farnesiani: Gardens initiated by the Farnese family.

The Senate and Regal Authority

• Rex: Latin for king, held authority during the Regal Period.

  • Power moderated by Senate—a council of elder males, established by Romulus with initial 100 members.

  • Members predominantly from the patrician class, the aristocracy of Rome.

• Responsibilities ranged from military to domestic policies.

Transition to Roman Republic (509 BCE)

• Kingship abolished, marking the end of monarchy.

• Shared power established between two elected consuls with checks to prevent authority abuse.

Livy's Historical Context

• Livy's writings in the late 1st century BCE reflect moral lessons rather than strict historical accuracy.

• Contrasts old virtuous Romans with a newer, decadent society, drawing from multiple narratives.

The Etruscans and Romans

• Etruscans served as cultural conduits, influencing early Roman institutions.

Patricians vs. Plebeians

• Patricians: Noble lineage, held significant social, political, and religious standing; originally the only class allowed Senate membership.

• Plebeians: Common citizens—farmers, artisans, traders—with no initial political power, though they eventually fought for rights leading to reforms like:

  • Tribune of the Plebs: Created to represent plebeians' interests.

  • Plebiscites: Laws passed by the plebeian assembly that later confirmed binding authority over all citizens.

Romulus and Remus: The Founding Myth

• Myth of the Twins: Abandoned by order of the tyrannical king Amulius and nurtured by a she-wolf.

• Ultimately overthrew Amulius and established Rome on the Palatine Hill around April 21, 753 BCE.

• The act of fratricide, with Romulus killing Remus, symbolizes recurring civil strife in Rome's future.

The Feminine Influence: The Rape of the Sabine Women

• Romulus abducted Sabine women during a festival, leading to war with Sabines but culminating in cohabitation and eventual unity between Romans and Sabines.

The fasces

• Symbol of authority comprising rods and axe representing the power to punish and execute.

• Carried by lictors, initially an Etruscan symbol adapted by the Romans.

Notable Kings of Rome

1. Romulus (753-717 BCE): Established laws and institutions.

2. Numa Pompilius (717-673 BCE): Introduced religious institutions.

3. Tullus Hostilius (673-641 BCE): Known for military victories.

4. Ancus Marcius (641-616 BCE): Builder and territorial expansion advocate.

5. Tarquinius Priscus (616-579 BCE): Brought Etruscan customs to Rome.

6. Servius Tullius (579-535 BCE): Instituted reforms based on wealth and military service.

7. Tarquinius Superbus (535-509 BCE): Last king, tyrannical, his overthrow led to Republic's formation.

The End of the Regal Period

• Culminated in 509 BCE, driven by Tarquinius Superbus's tyranny.

• The rape of Lucretia ignited public outrage and a shift in governance.

• Establishment of consulates replacing monarchy and significant power-sourcing from the citizens and Senate.

The Roman Senate

• Constant structure throughout periods, adapted to roles in governance after the monarchy.

• Roles evolved with the establishment of the Republic, holding function as advisers to consuls and later, legislators.

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