1 Roman Society and Culture AP World History

2 Roman Literature Most influenced by Greek models. Most distinguished poet of the Augustan age was Virgil. The most famous Latin prose work of the golden age was written by the historian Livy, whose masterpiece was the History of Rome.

3 Roman Law Rome’s system of law was one of the chief gifts to the Mediterranean world. The Twelve tables was the first code of law (had weaknesses). The “law of nations” had standards that applied to both citizens and foreigners.

4 Roman Art & Architecture The Romans adopted many features of the Greek style of art. The Romans excelled in architecture (rows, columns, rectangular buildings; and curvilinear forms: arch, vault, & dome). 1 st people in antiquity to develop and use concrete on a massive scale.

5 The Roman Family The paterfamilias was the supreme authority in the home, but this changed over time. Women married early – legal age was 12. Upper class women had considerable freedom and independence.

6 Slavery The Romans had more slaves and relied on slave labor more than any other people in the ancient world. The Roman conquest of the Mediterranean meant that large numbers of slaves were brought back to Italy as a result of their capture. The most famous slave revolt was led by Sparticus in 73 B.C.

7 Daily Life in Rome Rome was overcrowded, noisy, and dangerous at night. There were enormous differences between rich and poor. Entertainment such as horse and chariot races, dramas, and gladiator shows were free to the public.