Roman Civilization Study Notes
Roman Civilization Overview
Apollodorus of Damascus constructed the Pantheon in Rome (118-125 C.E.).
Geographic Expansion
Roman control: 500 B.C., 290 B.C., 240 B.C.
Growth facilitated by Roman roads connecting various cities across Italy.
Etruscan Civilization
Ancestors of Romans, influencing art, architecture, and religion.
Lesser-known language and unique cultural practices.
Peak civilization around 700 B.C.E., coinciding with Archaic Greece.
Etruscans traded with Greeks, adapted aspects of Greek culture.
Etruscan Architecture
Etruscan temples share features with Greek temples but include distinct elements:
Steps on one side, deep porches, and independent cella divisions.
Etruscan Tombs
Two types: corbeled domes and rock-cut chambers.
Notable sites like the Tomb of the Reliefs reflect family life and daily activities.
Etruscan Sculpture
Famous for metalwork; notable example is the Capitoline She-Wolf (ca. 500 B.C.E.).
Roman Republic Structure
Established in 509 B.C.E., lasting until 27 B.C.E.
Division between patricians (aristocrats) and plebeians (commoners).
Conflict initiated patronage system; plebeians relied on patrician support.
The Senate was primarily patrician.
287 B.C.E.: Plebeian vote (plebiscite) became binding for both classes.
Military Expansion
Conquests began in the 3rd century B.C.E.
Punic Wars against Carthage (264-146 B.C.E.) resulted in significant territorial gains.
Transition to a professional standing army initiated by Gaius Marius in 107 B.C.E.
Emergence of 'Equites'
New class emerged, focusing on business over political roles, conflicting with patricians.
Civil Conflicts
Political strife led to Sulla's dictatorship (82-79 B.C.E.) and subsequent violence.
Julius Caesar's rise and eventual assassination (45 B.C.E.) marked the end of the Republic.
Transition to Empire
Octavian (Augustus), Caesar's heir, became Rome's first emperor in 27 B.C.E.
Cultural Influence
Romans culturally dominated by Greek artistry despite military conquests.