Motives
In ancient Rome, suicide was a common form of escape for those facing imprisonment or financial ruin. It was also used to escape a spouse or an unhappy marriage or to free oneself from an unbearable stigma or dishonor. According to historians, some people also committed suicide due to political disillusionment or mental illness. The popular notion was that suicide was a way out of any trouble. Thus, suicide was accepted and may even been seen as honorable due to the influence of the Stoic philosophy on the Roman people.
Prevalence
According to records, suicides were frequent during the decline of the Roman Republic and the early years of the Roman Empire. Some estimates suggest that suicide comprised up to 15% of all deaths in Rome. While it was more common among the upper classes, even slaves sometimes resorted to self-inflicted deaths to escape servitude or painful executions. Additionally, suicide was sometimes seen as an alternative to harsh punishments such as exile.
Methods
The most common method of suicide in ancient Rome was poisoning. It was often an easy and discreet method as poison could be available in the form of drugs and ointment. Some historians suggest that it was even possible to obtain poison in the form of jewelry or accessories. Some people also resorted to dangerous traditional methods such as jumping into wells or hanging oneself. According to some ancient documents, some people even resorted to self-immolation.
Attitudes
The attitude towards suicide in ancient Rome was predominantly tolerant. Suicide was not viewed as a criminal offense, and the Roman laws did not punish those who took their own lives. As such, there was a sense of acceptance towards suicide and it was not seen as a shameful act. However, it was also frowned upon and associated with a lack of fortitude or courage.
Effects
The prevalence of suicide in ancient Rome affected its culture in several ways. For example, some suggest that the Stoic philosophy, which propagated the idea of accepting one’s fate with courage, was a reaction to the phenomenon of suicide. Additionally, because suicide was accepted and not seen as a shameful act, some people could take advantage of this to escape from financial or legal difficulties.
Legacy
The legacy of suicide in ancient Rome is evident in its literature and culture. For example, the Epicurean philosopher Epicurus wrote extensively on suicide, suggesting that it was an honorable way out of an unbearable situation. Moreover, the death of the Roman emperor Julius Caesar has been attributed to suicide and is seen as a key event in Roman history.
Suicide in Religion
Suicide in ancient Rome was also seen in a religious context. Some ancient Roman gods and goddesses, such as Apollon, were associated with the concept of suicide. Additionally, some people resorted to suicide as an act of devotion to their gods or to reach a higher state of consciousness or salvation.
Conclusion
In ancient Rome, suicide was seen as an honorable way to escape from an unbearable problem. It was a common phenomenon and was accepted by the Roman laws and culture. People resorted to poisoning, self-immolation, and other traditional methods of suicide. Additionally, suicide was sometimes used as a religious act of devotion or to reach a higher state of consciousness or salvation. Today, the legacy of suicide in ancient Rome can be seen in its literature, culture, and religious views.
