Culture of Greece and Rome Unit 3.6 Mr. Duncan

Greco-Roman Culture Rome absorbed many ideas from the Greek colonists that lived in Southern Italy. To the Romans, Greek art, literature, and philosophy, and scientific genius represented the height of cultural achievements. The Romans adopted Greek and Hellenistic Achievements. The blending of Greek, Hellenistic, and Roman traditions produced what is known as the Greco-Roman civilization Trade and travel during the Pax Romana helped spread this new civilization.

BIG Roman Achievements Literature The most famous Roman poet, was Virgil, who wrote the epic poem The Aeneid. This poem was meant to inspire patriotism in Rome and unite Rome after years of Civil War. History Roman historians wrote about the rise and fall of the Empire. The most famous historian was Livy who wrote the “The History of Rome.”

Art and Architecture While the Romans adapted many Greek styles of art and architecture, they also made it all their own. They created their own realistic art, grand buildings and palaces, as well as beautiful mosaics representing their daily life.

Engineering and Science The Romans also made advances in engineering and science. Engineering is the application of science and mathematics to develop useful structures and machines. These inventions include aqueducts and roads. Roman engineers built many large aqueducts, or bridge-like stone structures that carried water from the hills into Roman cities. The wealthy had water piped in, and almost every city had public baths. Here people gathered not only to wash themselves and hear the latest news. Roman roads were built across the Roman Empire. They made travel more efficient (especially for the Roman legions) and they increased communication.

The Romans also made advances to architecture The Romans also made advances to architecture. They built immense palaces, temples, and stadiums stood as mighty displays of Roman power and dignity. The Romans also improved columns and arches. Using concrete as a building material, they developed the rounded dome as a roof for large spaces. The most famous domed structure is the Pantheon, a temple that honors the many Roman gods. It still stands in Rome today. .

Entertainment and Sports Government and Laws Romans also made many advances in Government and Laws. They wrote the Law of Twelve Tables to protect the rights of the people and started the idea of innocent until proven guilty. Entertainment and Sports The Romans also enjoyed many forms of entertainment and sports. These included the gladiatorial games and chariot races.

Religion The Romans were initially a polytheistic society worshipping gods and goddesses they adapted from the Greeks. Over time, Christianity spreads to Rome by a Christian missionary Paul. Many Romans will convert to Christianity and the religion spreads throughout the Roman Empire.