Notes on the Monarchical Period in Rome

Introduction

• The monarchical period in Rome spans from 753 BC (foundation of the city) to 510-509 BC (establishment of the Republic).
• Seven kings ruled during this time:
  • Romulus
  • Numa Pompilius
  • Tullus Hostilius
  • Ancus Marcius
  • Tarquinius Priscus
  • Servius Tullius
  • Tarquinius Superbus

Kings of Rome

• Romulus and Tullus Hostilius were Romans.
• Numa and Ancus were Sabines.
• From Tarquinius Priscus to Tarquinius Superbus, the kings were Etruscans.

Monarchical Period Issues

• The main challenge is verifying literary sources through archaeology.
• Many aspects remain obscure; even the "annales pontificum" are not exhaustive.
• Roman monarchy is elective, constrained to an assembly of noble families.

Structure of the Monarchy

• The king was chosen from noble families and supported by a Council of Elders.
• This council was the precursor to the future Roman Senate.

Romulus' Legacy

• Debate exists about Romulus' reputation as a tyrant.
• His mysterious disappearance is noted by Plutarch, leading to various theories about his fate.
• Dionysius of Halicarnassus highlights Romulus' autocratic behavior, including executing senators by throwing them off the Tarpeian rock.

Religious Structures

• The rex sacrorum was a priest orchestrating religious rites.
• The interrex acted as an interim magistrate during the transition between kings.
• The Pontifex Maximus became a significant religious authority in the Republic.
• The college of Augurs interpreted divine will for military successes.
• Vestals maintained the sacred fire in the temple of Vesta.

Political Institutions Established by Romulus

• Romulus established the first political institutions, including a proto-senate of 100 patricians.
• The curiae were religious and military groups, with 30 total (10 per tribe).
• SPQR (Senatus Populusque Romanus) reflects the senate and the Roman people.

Numa Pompilius

• Succeeded Romulus and established the first religious institutions and craft guilds.
• Reformed the calendar by adding two months.

Subsequent Kings

• Tullus Hostilius: Known for military campaigns, including the destruction of Alba Longa.
• Ancus Marcius: Founded Ostia, Rome’s port, and engaged in military campaigns down the Tiber.

Etruscan Kings

• Tarquinius Priscus initiated Etruscan influence, attributed with significant public works.
• Servius Tullius was associated with reforms that defined citizenship and military organization.
• The Servian wall and comitia centuriata were significant developments.
• The centuriate system was based on wealth and military capability.

Tarquinius Superbus

• The last king, associated with tyranny, faced popular uprising leading to his downfall.
• Established dynastic succession, in contrast to previous elective monarchy.

Conclusion

• The monarchical period laid the groundwork for Roman political and social structures and transitions into the Republic.