Social and cultural context

Recognise the importance of class and status in Roman society.
Understand the roles and expectations of senators, equestrians, freedmen, slaves, and women.
Analyse how social hierarchies manifest within the narratives, influencing characters’ actions and interactions.

Roman Cultural Practices

Recall key Roman traditions and practices, such as religion, festivals, and the significance of the household gods (Lares and Penates).
Understand the concepts of Roman virtue (virtus) and honour (dignitas), and how they influence character behaviour and decisions.
Consider the role of gladiatorial contests, chariot races, and theatre performances in the narratives and what they reveal about Roman entertainment preferences.

Family and Relationships

Recognize the importance of family bonds and patron-client relationships in the narratives.
Analyse the parent-child dynamics and marriage customs practised in Roman society.
Understand the significance of loyalty and duty (pietas) within Roman familial and social relationships.

Roman View on Slavery

Be aware of the Roman views on slavery as a standard societal structure.
Understand the roles and experiences of slaves, as well as the process and implications of manumission (freeing a slave).
Consider how slavery narratives demonstrate Roman attitudes and the societal norms during the period.

Daily Life and Living Conditions

Understand the living conditions of different classes, from the opulence of wealthy Roman houses (domus) to the cramped conditions of the insulae.
Comprehend the daily routines, diet, and dress of Romans as detailed in the narratives.
Contemplate the depiction of city life versus rural life and the differing challenges and norms in each environment.

Education and Philosophy

Recognize the significance of education and sophistication in Roman society, especially among the upper classes.
Identify references to philosophical thoughts in the narratives, like Stoicism or Epicureanism.
Understand how these philosophical perspectives may influence character actions, dialogues, and overall plotlines.

Roman Law and Politics

Understand the basis of the Roman legal system and its influence on the narratives.
Be familiar with the branches and operation of Roman government, including roles such as consul, praetor, and tribune.
Comprehend how legal and political plotlines might reflect the real-world political tensions of that time.