Roman Civilization (Hardcover)

This book presents an introduction to the civilization of the ancient Romans during the period from Rome's origins in the eighth century BCE to the foundation of the New Rome, Constantinople, in 324 CE. Its primary goal is to answer the question, Who were the Romans? It begins by considering the Roman character, especially as it depicted in Augustan literature (Vergil, Horace, Livy and Ovid) and above all as exemplifed in the hero Aeneas. Roman virtues are conummated in Aeneas - self-doubting in adversity, ferocious in battle, merciful in victory. He exhibits the Roman virtues of pietas (duty toward the gods and human beings) and fides (good faith), both of which imply selflessness in a public cause and courage in adversity. The book will then trace the depiction of Roman character and ideals through Latin literaure. The third chapter will consider central Roman institutions - religion, law, politics and the army - while the fourth chapter will analyze Roman society, including the family, slavery, and public entertainment. The final chapter will look at the profound impact of Roman civilization, the legacy of its literature, the Latin language, Roman institutions, art and architecture. Roman art will be used throughout the book as evidence and to illustrate the argument. The book will contain a number of maps, as well as a glossary and table of contents to help beginning students.