Lecture Notes: Ancient Romans and the Empire

Introduction

• The Appian Way: a major road in and out of Rome, lined with tombs.
• Romans came from various backgrounds, rich and poor, slave and free.
• Ancient Rome still influences modern roads, laws, and architecture.
• Focus on ordinary Romans, not just emperors and generals.

Understanding Ancient Rome

• Rome: a cosmopolitan city with a population of over a million from three continents.
• The empire stretched from Spain to Syria, influencing cultures.
• Ancient Romans were diverse with stories inscribed on tombstones.

Everyday Lives of Romans

• Romans were not just a conquering race; their lives were influenced by the empire.
• Personal stories, such as Iskinus murdered in Spain, reflect their diverse experiences.
• Rome was a city of immigrants, with people coming from all over the empire.

Social and Cultural Dynamics

• The Empire brought slaves and new Roman citizens.
• Freed slaves often became integrated into Roman society.
• Roman citizenship was a status many aspired to attain.

The Role of Slavery

• Slavery was a stage in life for many, leading to Roman citizenship.
• Freed slaves contributed to the diverse population and culture of Rome.

Immigration and Community

• Trastevere: an immigrant area with communities of Jews and Syrians.
• Roman society was built on a foundation of diverse backgrounds.

Consumption and Economy

• Rome as a consumer city: relied on imports for basic commodities like grain and oil.
• Monte Testaccio: a mountain of discarded amphorae, highlighting consumption.
• Imported goods included olive oil from Spain and grain from Egypt.

Bread and Daily Life

• Bread: a staple for Romans, supported by the grain dole provided to citizens.
• Baking was a lucrative trade, exemplified by the tomb of a successful baker.

Professional Identity

• Romans identified themselves by their professions, as seen on tombstones.
• New job opportunities arose from the Empire's demands and imports.

Cultural Influence and Consumption

• Exotic goods and new colors from across the empire influenced Roman culture.
• Purple dye, for instance, became a status symbol regulated by law.

The Colosseum: A Microcosm of Empire

• The Colosseum showcased Roman might and the diversity of its people.
• Gladiators came from various backgrounds, representing the empire's reach.

Rome's Contradictions

• Rome was diverse but not tolerant; distinction was between those who resisted and joined.
• Romans could come from anywhere and become citizens of a global city.

Final Reflections

• Rome was the first global city with all the contradictions of modern cities.
• Romans, past and present, share questions about identity and belonging.

Conclusion

• Next topics include exploring city streets, high-rise tenements, and communal Roman life.
• Emphasis on the voices and experiences of ordinary Romans.