The Roman Civilization

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Like all civilizations, the Romans have distinct qualities that set them apart from all others. I had the privilege of discovering the characteristics that set the ancient Romans apart from every other set group of ancient people. The Romans were considered a more advanced civilization, and are thoroughly known for their beautiful architecture and art. These are two of the topics that will be discussed along with Roman clothing, food and beverages, customs, religion, superstitions, and use of free time. Let’s take a look back into early Roman life.

Ancient Romans wore clothing made of wool. It was sun into cloth by the women of the family. The richer people had slaves to complete this for them. If you had money you could buy linen, cotton, or silk brought into Rome from other parts of the empire. The men often wore togas, and only they could do so. Togas were made of wool, but they were not sewn. The hung over the body and draped over one arm. Tunics were the usual from slaves, all the way up the social ladder to nobles. The simplest and cheapest tunics were made by sewing together two pieces of wool together to form a tube with holes for arms. The Romans preferred to wear closed- toed shoes when outside. Indoors, they favored open-toed sandals. Sandals were made by taking a cork foundation and attaching leather strips to it. The way them made the sandals depended on the season that was present. For instance, summer sandals had fewer leather straps than winter sandals. This was due to climate factors. (Heather Wheeler, “The Romans-Clothing”, historyonthenet.com)

For such a seemingly complex civilization, the Romans missed out on a few greats in the food and beverage department. As far as thinks to drink, Romans didn’t have cof...

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...ire, 25, April 2014

• Cartwright, Mark, “Roman Architecture” Ancient Education, 5, Oct. 2013.

• “Did The Romans Have Free Time?” BBC, 24, April 2014

• Hall, Lee, “Ancient Roman Art and Architecture” Scholastic, 3, May 2013.

< http://www.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3753873>

• Wheeler, Heather, “The Romans-Clothing” History on the Net, 25 Nov. 2000.

• Rueman, Chris, “Ancient Rome and Religion” History Learning Site, 24, April 2014.

• “Weddings, Marriages, and Divorce” PBS, 13, July 2006.

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