Classical Studies 1000 Lecture 22: Lecture 22 Term 2 - Roman Games and Popular Entertainment.docx
Document Summary
The amphitheatre as social space popular entertainment for the crowds amphitheatres throughout roman world, but largest in rome (the colosseum) Social space as much as it is a place for spectacle. Amphitheatre as a social space looking at physical structure of building and how it corresponds to social divide: Colosseum architecture amphitheatre is correct term colosseum was nickname diff from theatre bc it is all around, like our modern arena or stadium. Retractable awning for shade over the colosseum. High wall between arena and the stands separation from gladiators, lions could jump high. Funerary context (to honour the dead); pretext maintained. To glorify family and also about politics. Duty", tribute"; gladiator shows" politics - do things for the people so they will like you caesar on games for people so he will get elected. Variants in armour, weapons, fighting style: differences all designed to expose different parts of their bodies some have left arm bare, diff shield, etc.