5-3 Culture and Society in the Roman World

I. Roman Art, Architecture, and Literature A. In the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC, Romans copied Greek sculpture B. Romans excelled at Architecture –1. They used the dome, arch, and vault –2. They built bridges, roads, and aqueducts

C. Literature was written in Latin –1. Virgil was the most famous poet who wrote about Rome –2. Livy was one of the first historians, he didn’t always get his facts right

II. The Roman Family A. Paterfamilias- the dominant male who controlled the family B. All Roman boys were taught to read and write C. Daughters had male guardians and were married by 14 D. Women could own property and they could attend public events (in their own seating)

III. Slavery A. By the 3rd century BC even small farmers had slaves B. Slaves came from conquered territories –1. Greeks were considered the best slaves because they were well educated C. Slave punishment was harsh –1. It was easier to kill a bad slave and buy a new one than to punish him

IV Daily Life in Rome A. Rome was overpopulated, overcrowded, noisy and dangerous B. The poor lived in tiny apartments called insulae that weren’t built well and frequently collapsed or caught fire C. Most families lived in 1 room with no plumbing or heat

D. Rome had fabulous public buildings like baths, temples, theaters and markets E. People were kept happy with public shows and free grain