Evaluation of evidence from the whole topic

Evaluation of evidence from the whole topic

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Interpretation of Roman Literary Sources

  • Primary sources, such as the works of Pliny, Cicero, or Caesar, provide valuable insight into Roman society, but must be critically evaluated for bias and perspective.
  • Learn to differentiate between types of literature – epics, histories, tragedies, or comedies – as each brings its perspectives to the Roman world.
  • Pay attention to cultural values and norms reflected in the text; sometimes what’s not said is just as revealing as what is.

Analysis of Roman Material Culture

  • Artefacts such as potteries, mosaics, and statues serve as physical proof of Roman culture. Try to understand what these artefacts tell about the Romans: their daily life, values, beliefs, and more.
  • Visit museums, either physically or online, to better understand these artefacts. The British Museum and the Museum of London both have extensive Roman collections.
  • Roman architecture, like the Colosseum, aqueducts, or Hadrian’s Wall, speaks volumes about the Romans’ technical expertise and aesthetic ideas.
  • Epigraphy (the study of inscriptions) and numismatics (the study of coins) provide a wealth of information about Roman economy, politics, and social life.

Evaluation of Roman Philosophical and Historical Texts

  • Ancient philosophers like Seneca or Cicero can offer unique viewpoints on Roman ethics, politics, and societal structure.
  • Consider the motivations of Roman historians like Livy and Tacitus — why did they write what they did, and for whom?

Understanding Evidence in Context

  • Always consider evidence in the context of the Roman Empire’s geography, timeline, and socio-political climate. Was it during the Republic or the Empire? Was it the Pax Romana or a time of strife?
  • Challenge assumptions and stereotypes about the Romans you might have absorbed from popular culture.

Comparison with Other Ancient Civilisations

  • Compare and contrast the Roman world with other ancient civilisations such as the Greeks, Persians, or Egyptians.
  • How was Roman law different from the laws of Hammurabi in Babylon or the Pharaohs in Egypt? How did Roman engineering compare with the architecture of ancient Greece or Persia?

Remember that the study of the Roman world is also an exploration of continuity and change, understanding our present through the lens of the past. Use this revision content to develop the ability to critically evaluate, analyse, and compare evidence while offering a balanced interpretation.