The Colosseum
Question
According to Colin Cunningham in Unit 6, the form and function of a
building “are inextricably linked” (Block 2, pg 50). Consider three
ways in which this was so for the Colosseum.
The Colosseum in Rome was built in around 80CE. It was used to house
spectacular performances such as gladiator fights. It also signified
the power and prestige of the emperor. As such, the form and design of
the building had to help fulfil the purpose of the Colosseum.
As the Colosseuem was built to house games that people came to watch,
visibility was an important consideration. There were no pillars
blocking the view of the spectators so everyone would be able to see
the action. There were five levels of tiered seating to accommodate
the different hierarchy in the Roman society. Thus the dignitaries
seated near the centre have a better view of the spectacle whereas the
women and the slaves seated right at the top were further away. In
addition, the emperor’s box was visible to all the spectators.
With a capacity of 50,000 spectators, the Colosseum must provide easy
accessibility. There were a total of 76 numbered entrances leading
inside. Each entrance led to a different level and seat. This provided
easy and safe access. In addition, this allowed the people of
different social standing to use a different entrance. The entrances
leading to the upper levels where we find the commoners’ seats were
simple and undecorated. However, the entrance used by the emperor and
his entourage was elaborately decorated with marble panelling. This
elaborate system provided safety to the emperor and the people of a
higher social order in case of riots and disorder.
As important as the spectators were the participants of the games. As
there were many people and animals involved, there had to be good
infrastructure to house the performers be. There was a network of
cells and corridors below the arena that held prisoners and animals.
There was also an elaborate system of which led the prisoners and