Studying ancient Rome is essential for understanding our own world. It provides a window into the astonishing civilization that has extended throughout the centuries. From a historical perspective, the knowledge of antiquity deepens our understanding of the past, and helps us to better comprehend the present. The cultural, social, and political changes that occurred during Roman Imperial times shaped what followed. The imperium, or power and authority of Rome, were vast and its influence continues to spread through our own world today.
Studying the immense and sophisticated capital of the world was vital for the success in the military and political arena. Rome’s imperial government was very bureaucratic and organized, influencing the way our societies are run today. In the past, Rome established a model of effective government with a direct influence on modern-day democracies. From their administrative procedures to their area of influence, there is an appreciation when it comes to the study of ancient Rome.
It’s not only the political structure of Rome that had a lasting effect, their cultural and social structures are also of significant note. Rome is the birthplace of great thinkers: Julius Caesar, Plato, and Cicero, just to name a few. The way in which they lived and the things they accomplished inspired generations of civilizations. Their legacy can be seen in various places, such as the arenas built by the Roman gladiators, monuments like the Colosseum, and ancient roads that are still present today.
Art, literature, music and other artistic forms were highly valued by the Romans. Ancient Roman art can be found around the globe, while ancient Roman literature has inspired countless authors, some of which have won the Nobel prize. Ancient Roman music, which was made up of wind and strings instruments, continues to influence the composition of our current music today.
The study of ancient Rome is key for understanding the development of many aspects of the world today. Its institutions and social structures, accompanied by its thinkers, art, and literature, give insight into the very fabric of our existence. For all these reasons, the importance of studying ancient Rome is undeniable.
The Geographical Influence Of Ancient Rome
The geographic boundaries of ancient Rome were immense, and its impact on the European map, and even some other parts of the world, were significant. Ancient Rome expanded its borders up to the Rubicon river and the Nile river in Egypt. This extended part of the world was included in the Provinces of the Roman Empire, in which Roma was the paramount. This means that during the first century, the whole Mediterranean was encompassed in a single political power.
This particular region, due to its characteristics, has had a notable interaction between their different cultures – and this has allowed for a cultural exchange which still nowadays influences the area. Thus, Ancient Rome, along with other influences, has allowed the cultures in the region to create the development and diversity that the area still has. Lastly, this region was influenced by North-African religions, which were then taken to Europe and other parts of the world, through Rome.
Given its long-standing presence, the understanding of Ancient Rome opens the doors for analysis of the cultural, religious, administrative and military events that took place throughout the centuries. As a result, we can relate what went on in the past with what is happening nowadays.
The Architecture of Ancient Rome
Ancient Rome is known for its grand and imposing architecture, some of which still stand today. The most impressive and well-known architecture can be found in the Roman Forum, the Temple of Jupiter, the Pantheon and the Colosseum. All these monuments had a special purpose and mostly, they were made with the intention of impressing rulers and expressions of pride and power. Although most of these monuments have been built in honor of Roman gods, their main function was to demonstrate the power of Rome.
The Colosseum is a famous and iconic monument. It was used as an amphitheater where gladiators used to fight wild animals and each other. This arena seated up to 50.000 people, where the wealthiest classes of Roman people used to gather and enjoy such epic fights. It is a so impressive symbol of Rome’s grandeur, and it still surprises many visitors and scholars.
The aqueducts are a unique example of the use of engineering by ancient Rome. They were used to bring clean water from outside sources to the city’s inhabitants, and reduce the risk of illnesses by providing a regular supply of fresh water. This effective use of engineering and resources gave the city’s inhabitants a safe and strong infrastructure.
Ancient Rome used to be renowned for its advanced and efficient architecture, which contained well-crafted pieces of artwork. Due to this, we can marvel at the best examples of this architecture nowadays, and have a taste of what it looked and felt like being in the city of Rome during the imperial times.
The Language of Ancient Rome
The Latin language of Ancient Rome, though today it is considered a Dead Language, is still in use in different context. Latin was used by the Ancient Roman Congress during their sessions and it was seen as the language of power. Although Latin did not remain as the predominant language for the population, its legacy is still seen in different places.
In the church, Latin was used for centuries and it is still used today in some Catholic services in the Vatican. Those learned Latin and were given access to the works of renowned writers such as Dante or Ovid. In some areas of the legal field, Latin is still in use, in particular in countries of United Kingdom, such as England and Scotland. Latin terminology is commonly used in areas such as medical and science.
Ancient Rome’s language is one with a substantial weight, particularly for its long-standing historical reputation, and for its religious contributions. Latin-based languages still maintain important differences and this could be related to the fact that Latin has been spoken in different parts of the world at many different times, in different forms.
In conclusion, it is remarkable how Latin has remained alive despite how much time has passed. It is a language that has influenced many other languages and continues to be associated with power and mystery.
Pollution In Ancient Rome
The rise of Ancient Rome as a power and city was made possible thanks to the intense use of resources, the development of its trade, and its population growth. Although the production of wealth and development was beneficial for the city, it was also the cause of major polluting of land and water.
The Ancient Romans had no way of disposal of the waste they collected, meaning that the waste piles accumulated near and within the city. The presence of so much refuse had a detrimental effect on the land and water resources of the city. Another pollutants were released into the environment due to the mining activities, in which villagers and slaves had to work.
At the peak of the Roman Empire, smog, due to the burning of coal and wood, soiled the city and could not be easily avoided. The Roman city was generally known for its smog, along with its toxic air and smells. This air pollution affected the health of its citizens, the city’s buildings, and its public structures, among other things.
Human waste was thought to be collected in gutters and street drains, which were also a source of contamination by sewage. Animals also added to the environmental pollution. Cattle, sheep and horses were let out into the streets of the Roman city, which created a lot of noise and mud.
The lack of regulations on pollution is further illustrated by the presence of animal carcasses, fish guts, and trash thrown everywhere in the City. The pollution in Ancient Rome had a deep impact in Roman society and its citizens.
Education In Ancient Rome
In Ancient Rome, there were two main types of education: informal education and formal education. Informal education usually included education received within the home, mainly from the father, and was focused on teaching children manners, basic notions of citizenship, and to behave in society. It was a very structured education, but classes were not held in public.
On the other hand, formal education was offered by tutors and was divided into two stages: primary and elementary. Primary consisted mainly of learning how to read and write in Latin, as well as grammar and literature. In elementary education, the student learned oratory and poetry, as well as History and some basic notions in philosophy.
The most educated citizens of Rome could opt for an even more evolved stage of education, which was taught at schools called ludi. In those schools, student could learn advanced lectures on rhetoric, law and astronomy among others. Public schools served the poor, but only focused on basic literacy.
In Ancient Rome, education was not a right, but only provided to wealthy patricians. Although some reforms were introduced in 116 BC, allowing more people to access higher education, during Ancient Roman times, the majority of the population had limited access to education.
Conclusion
Ancient Rome has left a lasting influence on the world. Its ancient language, architecture, politics, and so much more, still impacts us and continues to shape us today. As a result, the importance of studying and understanding Ancient Rome is profound. Without it, our world would be missing a significant amount of historical knowledge and the appreciation for what set the stage for the world we inhabit today.
