Roman Entertainment By: Jessica Latten Mr. Hayes Period 2

Roman Entertainment The ancient Romans enjoyed watching, and playing all different events. Most of these events were free, so poor people could attend them as well as the rich. Large open air theaters were used for the performances. Events were scheduled throughout the day, morning and night.

Events in the Coliseum The main type of entertainment in Ancient Roman Times was found in the Coliseum. Animals, professional gladiators, condemned criminals and slaves fought each other until death. These events included:  Gladiator fights  Mock naval battles  Exotic animal fights During the mock naval battles, the heavy wooden flooring would be removed, and the lower cells would be flooded. Animals such as lions, elephants, snakes and panthers were massacred in the battles between two animals, and the battles between man and animal.

The Coliseum

Coliseum Aside from common belief, the crowd would, when asked by the emperor “Live or Die?” a thumbs up motion would mean yes, let him live, and side to side, would mean to let him die. The sand in the coliseum was dyed with red clay, so the blood would blend in, and not gross spectators out.

Circus Maximus The Circus Maximus was primarily used for chariot racing. However, it was used occasionally for hunts or mock battles. The Circus was the site of public games and festivals influenced by the Greeks in the 2nd century B.C. The track measured 600 meters in length and 225 meters in width.

Chariot Racing in the Circus Maximus It was the most popular sport in Rome. There was no public gambling on the races. To follow what was going on, spectators would watch the egg or dolphin counters, It showed how many laps were left.

Roman Games Track and Field games took place at the Campus. Men participated in foot racing, jumping, archery, wrestling, and boxing. All over Rome, men participated in riding, fencing, wrestling, throwing and swimming. Before dinner, men played ball, which were games of throwing and catching. One game of ball was they would throw the ball as high as they could and then catch it before it hit the ground. No women joined in these games.

The Theatre The Roman theatres were popular at night. The theaters were all outside to avoid problems with lighting and sound. The audience was usually more interested in their favorite actors then the play itself. To win the audience praise’s the actors would were decorative masks, costumes, dancing and mime.

Roman Entertainment

THE END Jessica Latten