HIST 102H Lecture : The Roman World
Document Summary
First was romulus, legendary founder of the city (based off of etruscan mythology) The senate developed as the king"s council of distinguished citizens. Italy faces west; prevented rome from early contact with near eastern civilizations. Rome learned building (arches & vaults) and gladiatorial combat from the etruscans. Roman practice of divination is related to etruscan religion. Romans derived alphabet from greek; borrowed religious beliefs; emphasized trojan origins. Adopted in 509 bce, after the overthrow of the last king. Based on separation of powers: a system of checks and balances. Dominated by the patricians (aristocrats): members of the senate = those of wealth, power, and influence. Some magistrates came from the equestrian class. The twelve tables was rome"s first written law code, c. 450. Codified the law, yet perpetuated ancient customs. Resulted from the demands of the plebeian (commoner)class. Prosperity led them to demand more political power. Equestrians fell in between as ideal citizens.
