Ancient Rome Lecture - Part 2

Overview

• Transition from Roman Republic to Roman Empire.
• Focus on the architecture and cultural significance of key structures: Colosseum, Forum of Trajan, Pantheon, and Ludovisi Battle Sarcophagus.

The Colosseum (Flavian Amphitheater)

• Significance: Iconic symbol of Rome, could accommodate over 50,000 spectators.
• Purpose: Hosted spectacles like gladiator matches, wild beast fights, and executions.
• Structure:
  • Arches, barrel vaults, and groin vaults prevalent.
  • 76 entrances; tiers with decorative, non-weight-bearing columns.
  • Valerium: Canvas roof mechanism for shade, operated by Roman Navy.
• Materials: Originally faced in marble, much of which was repurposed during the Middle Ages.
• Cultural Significance: Reflects Roman fascination with spectacle and bloodshed.

Forum of Trajan

• Emperor Trajan: Most prolific and well-liked emperor, expanded empire to its largest extent.
• Purpose: Display of Rome's power and stability; included spaces for public gatherings and civic buildings.
• Components:
  • Basilica Opia: Served as a foundational structure for future Christian churches.
  • Libraries: Bilingual collections highlighting Greek influence.
  • Column of Trajan: Narrative frieze depicting Dacian Wars, trajan's ashes buried at its base.
• Architecture: Use of equestrian statues and hierarchy of scale in design.

The Pantheon

• Significance: Monument to all Roman gods and deified emperors.
• Architecture:
  • Greek-inspired façade with triangular pediment, Corinthian columns.
  • Roman innovation with a massive dome; concrete composition varies by height for structural integrity.
  • Oculus: Central opening for light and air, also functions as a sundial.
• Preservation: Well-preserved due to use by the Catholic Church.
• Influence: Inspired Renaissance architecture, Italian kings and Raphael buried here.

Ludovisi Battle Sarcophagus

• Design: Crowded composition, exemplifies "horror vacui" (fear of empty space).
• Iconography:
  • Represents Romans (clean-shaven, victorious) vs. defeated "barbarians."
  • Central figure in an orator's gesture demonstrates Roman confidence in conquest.
• Artistic Context:
  • Lack of proportionality and perspective reflects anxiety of late imperial Rome.
  • Signifies wealth and Roman ideology of superiority and conquest.

Conclusion

• Reviewed significant Roman structures and artworks.
• Reflected on Roman cultural values and their enduring architectural legacy.