World History Chapter 6E Rome and the Roots of Western Civilization
The Legacy of Greco-Roman Civilization Romans were proud of their ability to rule, but they realized the Greeks led in the fields of art, architecture, literature, and philosophy. The mixture of Greek, Hellenistic, and Roman cultures produced a new culture called Greco- Roman culture. It is also called Classical Civilization.
Parthenon
Roman Fine Arts Roman art was practical in its purpose Bas-relief was a Roman type of sculpture. This art is where images project from a flat background. Roman artists were experts at creating mosaics. These mosaics were located in public places and especially in Roman villas (Pompeii).
Bas-relief
Roman Mosaic
Continued Roman artists were also skilled at mural painting and these were called frescoes
Learning and Literature Romans followed the philosophy of Stoicism which encouraged virtue, duty, moderation, and endurance. Marcus Aurelius was the last of the “Good Emperors” and he was also a Stoic philosopher.
Marcus Aurelius
Continued The poet Virgil wrote The Aeneid which was modeled after the Greek epics by Homer. Ovid wrote poetry for enjoyment. Livy and Tacitus were excellent writers of history.
Virgil
Roman Achievements Latin was the language of learning well into the second half of the 20 th century. Roman architecture was admired all over the ancient world. The dome, the Roman arch, and concrete were great Roman achievements. Roman law was Rome’s most lasting and widespread legacy. These laws were based on common sense and practical ideas.
Pantheon
Aqueducts-Roman Arch