Lecture on the Colosseum

Introduction

• Iconic ancient Roman monument: The Colosseum
• Dual perception: A ruin of grandeur vs. a historic abattoir
• Dr. Bernie Frischer's personal take: A horrific place despite its fame

Historical Background

• Built over Nero's artificial lake in a reclaimed palace area
• Constructed by the Flavian Emperors as a gift to Rome after Nero’s unpopular reign
• Vespasian’s initiative: Giving prime land back to the public
• Original name: Flavian Amphitheater; named ‘Colosseum’ due to a colossal statue of the Sun God

Architectural Details

• Made of 100,000 blocks of travertine
• Influenced by Greek architecture: Different orders/styles
  • Top: Corinthian order
  • Second story: Ionic order
  • Lower story: Tuscan order (Italic variation of Doric)
• Arches: A hallmark of Roman innovation (80 arches with 76 numbered)
• Ticket system for 50,000 spectators: Corresponding numbered entrances
• Interior complexity: Corridors and stairways leading to seats
  • Seating hierarchy: Emperor/magistrates/priests, senators, wealthy, plebeians, foreigners, slaves, and women

Events & Spectacles

• Three main events:
  • Morning: Animal hunts
  • Midday: Executions (colorful and imaginative)
  • Afternoon: Gladiatorial combats
• Romans’ fascination with violent spectacles, including lunch-time executions
• Execution methods: Burnt at stake, mauled by animals
• Cultural significance: Seen by later Christians as pagan brutality

Theatrical Elements

• Colosseum as a 'double theater'
• Stage preparation: Wooden planks, trapdoors, and elevators for animals and props
• Major spectacles: Including reenactments of famous battles
  • Expensive and resource-intensive, tied to significant occasions

Engineering Marvels

• Marine detachment operated the velarium (great awning) for comfort
  • Awning supported by ropes and planks
• Security measures: Netting over spectators, ditches, and stakes to keep animals in the arena

Modern Perception vs. Historical Reality

• Archaeological findings vs. romanticized interpretations
• Continues to symbolize Rome’s power, brilliance, and despotism

Conclusion

• Colosseum as an enduring symbol of ancient Rome
• The complex legacy of grandeur and brutality

[Music]