Lecture Notes on Rome and Christianity

Overview of Roman Religion and Politics

• Roman religion intertwined with politics.
• Christians refusing to sacrifice to the Emperor seen as political acts.
• Romans viewed religion differently; worshipped various deities in different forms (e.g., Jupiter, Apollo).

Introduction to the Guest Speaker

• Guest: Jeremy Ryan Slate
• Topic: Fascination with Rome, comparison with other ancient civilizations.
• Discussion on the power structures in history.

The Fall of Rome

• Transition from the Roman Empire to the Roman Catholic Church.
• Rome founded as a kingdom in 753 BC by Romulus.
• Transition from kingdom to Republic in 509 BC.
• Julius Caesar as pivotal figure; his assassination in 44 BC.
• Augustus becomes the first Emperor, using political strategy to gain power.

Major Time Periods of the Roman Empire

1. Principate (27 BC - 284 AD):
   • Peaceful and prosperous time, successful emperors (e.g., Marcus Aurelius, Hadrian).
2. Dominate (284 AD - 476 AD):
   • More authoritarian; emperors like Diocletian and Constantine.
   • Major reforms regarding monetary systems and structure.

Christianity's Role in Rome

• Early Christianity viewed as a minor cult by Romans.
• Roman religion seen as political; refusal to worship Emperor viewed as rebellion.
• Constantine's vision leads to the acceptance of Christianity in the Empire (Battle of Milvian Bridge).

Historical Context of Jesus

• Only one historical mention of Jesus outside Christian texts (by Josephus).
• Early Christians faced persecution due to political misunderstandings.

Key Historical Events and Figures

• Council of Nicaea (325 AD):
  • Discussed nature of Christ, creation of Nicene Creed.
  • Defined the Trinity and helped establish core Christian beliefs.
• Fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD by Odoacer.
• The Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire) lasts until 1453 AD.

Decline and Inequality in Rome

• Inequality existed in Rome; power concentrated among elite.
• The Gracchi brothers introduced the grain dole as a social program.
• Roman political structure favored wealthy classes, resulting in civil unrest.
• Social programs and inflation led to economic instability.

Comparisons to Modern Times

• Modern parallels with the US: inflation and economic disparity.
• Political class may not represent the needs of the populace.
• Importance of local community engagement and self-sufficiency.
• Warning against repeating historical mistakes regarding monetary policy and class inequality.

Final Thoughts

• Awareness of history can guide future actions.
• Need for balance in societal structure and economic policy.
• The importance of local engagement and community building.