Culture: Society

Roman Society Structure

The society of ancient Rome was clearly stratified, with a distinct wealth gap between the rich and the poor.
The highest social class were the Patricians - the wealthy, aristocratic families with political influence and power.
The Plebeians were common roman citizens - merchants, farmers and traders who made up the bulk of the population.
Although initially barred from holding public office, Plebeians gained the right to do so over time through a series of reforms known as the Conflict of the Orders.
The lowest class of Rome’s population were the slaves, who had no political power or personal freedom.

Roman Household

The ‘paterfamilias’ or father of the family held enormous power, making key decisions and maintaining discipline.
The well-being of the women, children, and slaves of the household were dependent on the paterfamilias.
Roman homes - domus - ranged from modest apartments to grand villas, depending upon the wealth of the family.
The atrium, a central courtyard, was a key feature of a traditional Roman house.

Roman Education

Primary education was generally conducted at home by parents or private tutors.
Wealthy Romans might then send their children to a grammar school for a more advanced education in literature and language.
Only the privileged could afford a higher education, usually involving rhetoric - the art of public speaking, and philosophy.

Gender Roles

It’s important to note that ancient Roman society was deeply patriarchal; men held all political power and legal authority.
Women typically had limited rights and were expected to run the household and rear children.
However, some women, particularly in higher social classes, could exert significant influence over their husbands and sons.

Religion and Superstition

Roman religion was polytheistic (the belief in multiple gods) and borrowed a significant pantheon of gods from the Greeks.
There was a strong belief in omens and divination; interpreting the will of the gods from natural events was a common practice.
Major gods such as Jupiter, Mars and Minerva were worshipped in grand public temples.
The emperor was often deified and worshiped as a god - an element of what was known as the Imperial Cult.