Romans Final

Julia Domna/ Mater Castorum?(Mother of camp)

Wife of Septimius Severus and mother of Geta and Caracalla. Promoted philosophy. Good marriage with Severus, accompanied him on campaigns to East and had coins minted with her face on them. Mediated relations between her sons when they took over as joint emperors. Committed suicide after Caracalla's assassination.

Paul

spread Christianity around the Roman Empire, particularly in Greek regions; journeyed to Rome to visit Christians there; many influential letters on Christian doctrine are attributed to him (accurately or not)

Livy

Wrote "Books on the Foundation of the city." covering the period from the earliest legends of Rome before the traditional foundation in 753 BC through the reign of Augustus in Livy's own time. He was on familiar terms with the Julio-Claudian dynasty, advising Augustus's grandnephew, the future emperor Claudius, as a young man not long before 14 AD in a letter to take up the writing of history.

Mithraic Mysteries

worship of Mithras and the zodiac; especially popular with soldiers; women were forbidden

Julius Caesar

"Life of Julius Caesar" - part of the Parallel Lives. Story starts with Caesar being captured by pirates and then later getting revenge. Becomes Pontifex Maximus, goes to rule Spain, part of the first triumvirate with Crassus/Pompey, crosses rubicon in 49 BC and defeats Pompey in civil war. Becomes dictator for life and is killed March 15 in 44 BC: "Ides of March"

Julian

"The Apostate" - opposes Homer and Vergil being taught by Christians b/c it was not their god, very pagan because Christians killed/ ruined his family. He issued a series of decrees that revoked privileges to the Christian clergy granted by Constantine. He was the last openly pagan emperor

Duces (Dukes)

"leaders," during Roman Republic anyone who commanded troops, including foreign leaders; in early Empire not a formal expression of rank (general in charge of two or more legions), changed to defining commander of an expeditionary force, usually made up of detachments from one or more of the regular military formations

Honestiores

"more honorable people" From the second century They had greater respect and more favorable considerations such as senators, equites, town councilors, veterans, together with their families.

Marcus Aurelius

(aka Philosopher Emperor) - written in greek, expanded borders in Dacia, originally from Spain, son Commodus later takes over

Attila and the Huns

- 434-453 Became king in 434. Huns came out of uniting disparate peoples in (today's) Romania Huns waged wars on the Eastern Roman Empire Theodosius II paid tribute to the Huns rather than battle Marcian(Successor of Theodosius II) refused to continue payment to Atilla's sons thus leading to their eventual demise

Libelli

249-251 formal Christian Persecutions) It was a document given to Roman citizen to certify performance of a pagan sacrifice, hence demonstrating the loyalty to the authorities of the roman Empire

Gaiseric and the Vandals

429-439, Vandals gain control of North Africa 455- Sacks Rome- takes Empress Licinia Eudoxia and her daughter Eudocia. Peaceful sack, open doors to Rome and took what they wanted, but agreed not to kill anyone in Rome Following the Roman defeat, attacked the Eastern Empire Died in Carthage in 478

Lucius Verus

adopted by Hadrian along with Princeps Marcus Aurelius. He ruled jointly with Aurelius and both were chosen as successors by Hadrian. Ruled Rome as Emperor in 161 AD-169 AD. In 164 Ad he married Marcus Aurelius's daughter Lucilla at the age of 14 years old just before preparing for war with the Parthians. Celebrated a joint triumph with Marcus back in Rome. Battled with German Lombards, Marcomanni, and Quadi in the First and Second Marcomannic Wars

Humiliores

more lowly people". From the second century A.D. They only had minimal respect. They could get only summary justice and if convicted, got harsh punishments. -

Valerian

mperor from 253-260 and was the first emperor to be taken as a prisoner of war. He was declared emperor after the death of Gallus by his soldiers and it was later approved by the senate since he was one of their own. Went to the East to deal with the Persian threat after making Gallienus a joint emperor. He recovered Antioch and put Syria back in Roman control. A plague wiped out a lot of his troops en route to Edessa and lost a battle to King Shapur I and was taken prisoner after Shapur betrayed a truce. Letters to the senate on how to prosecute Christians: Letter 1 - 257AD Christian clergy had to perform sacrifices to Roman deities or face banishment Letter 2 - 258AD Christian leaders executed Roman senators and knights that were Christian had to worship Roman gods or lose their property, titles, or face execution Roman matrons were to be banished if they didn't give up Christianity Civil servants and members of imperial household would be reduced to slavery if they didn't give up Christianity This legislation was rescinded after Gallienus' Decree of Tolerance

Antony

one of the earliest monks (but not the first); defined and spread what later became known as the monastic lifestyle of fasting, praying, modesty, etc., even traveling alone into the desert of Egypt

Pliny (the Younger)

raised and educated by his uncle, Pliny the Elder. An imperial magistrate under Trajan who sent hundreds of letters. He wrote a letter to Trajan regarding Christians trial, "Do not heed the anonymous accusation" Governor of Bithynia-Pontus(NW corner of modern day Turkey)

Septimius Severus

First in the Severan Dynasty. Consul in 190 and Emperor from 193 to 211. Severus marched into Rome after Emperor Pertinax was assassinated (193) and seized power by killing incumbent emperor Didius Julianus. Discharged Praetorian Guard after gaining power. Famous for giving raise to soldiers, leading to high popularity. Died of illness during campaign of Caledonia, succeeded by Caracalla, his son. First emperor not from Italy.

Plutarch

Greek historian and biographer who later became a Roman citizen. Best known work is the Parallel Lives, which is a series of biographies of famous Greeks/Romans-mostly concerned with the influence of their characters on the Roman empire

Antoninus Pius

Hadrian's successor, 4th of 5 good emperors, Hadrian's wall, welfare of Romans grew throughout his dynasty. "Antonine" age, Stress on family and the imperial dynasty

Praetorian Prefect

Kalupa - the head of the pretorian guard in Rome, holders of this office held great power, despite the relatively few troops they commanded, murdering emperors and at one point auctioning off the office of emperor.

Theodoric

King of the Ostrogoths 475-526 CE 489-526 CE retakes Italy for the east, and rules as "King of the Romans" Arian Christian (and tolerant of Trinitarian Christianity) Referred to as the "people's ruler" Later began the persecution of high ranking Christians in court out of paranoia

Edward Gibbon

Modern scholar! Wrote "Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire" Claimed that the Roman empire fell due to two reasons: barbarism and Christianity Starting in Augustan times, used military to suppress Roman people and supplant them as functional citizen army, turned to barbarians to man their forces, allowed external people to grow in strength, army more diverse and caused weaker state/ less loyalty to state Christianity offered choices aside from the traditionalistic Roman views

Romulus and Remus

Mother was a Vestal virgin who was forcibly raped by "Mars" as she claims. Her babies were thrown into a river but rescued by a She-wolf who nursed them and raised them, though "she-wolf" could have been a nickname for a woman. A sign told them they should found Rome, and Romulus and Remus had a sign of birds to see who would rule and Romulus won. Remus mocked Romulus as he was building the walls and so Romulus killed him. Romulus also allegedly created the senate

Nicaea

Nicene Creed: defines Christianity as defined by the council of Bishops. In response to contrary doctrines such as the Gnostic Gospel of Thomas

Codex Argenteus

Translation of four Gospels into Gothic language Produced for court of Theodoric the Ostrogoth (silver lettering, dyed purple, production technique, language, dating - show rich used) 3. Created script to translate bible into Gothic- played major role in helping convert Goths to Christianity

Tarpeia

When Rome was besieged by the Sabine king, she betrayed Rome to the Sabines for what she thought would be jewelry, instead she was crushed to death by shields. A symbol of betrayal and greed in Rome (Tarpeian Rock)

Pliny the Younger

Writes Letter to Tacitus explaining how his uncle, Pliny the Elder died at Mt. Vesuvius (79 AD )

Hagiography

A genre of literature that writes about lives of saints. Helped spread the Christianity. Ex. Athanasius' Life of Antony., localized heroes

Fortunata

Another character in the Satyricon, she is the wife of Trimalchio. Fortunata is also a former slave, and her name reflects how lucky she was to be freed by Trimalchio.

Severus Alexander

Cassidy Johnson

Milan

Edict of Milan, one of the capitals of the tetrarchy

Pompeii

Location of Mt. Vesuvius Eruption. Major city, archeological jackpot

Relics

Saints' bones or other body parts or any object touched by holiness. Offered access to God. Ex. fragment of the True Cross.

Antony

killed Brutus and Cassius, brought crown (diadem) to Caesar 3 times and he said no every time because no kings in Rome

Shapur II

Bailey

Giton

A character in the Satyrion, he is a slave boy to the narrator Encolpius. Their relationship is more than slave and master, Encolpius refers to him as "brother" and he values the boy more than a slave. Their relationship also includes consensual sex→ basically a romantic relationship. They have adventures throughout the Satyricon, and Giton leaves Encolpius for another man.

Trimalchio

A main character in the Satyricon, Trimalchio is a former slave who has become extremely wealthy and prosperous, "The richest man in Rome" He is well known for hosting extravagant dinner parties where ridiculous activities happen. He is obsessed with death and at the end of his dinner party, he starts talking about his own funeral causing all his guests to leave

Ardashir I

Kalupa - overthrower of the Parthian empire and first sassin (sasanian?) king he fought Severus during his invasion of mesopotamia. All free habitats

Edict of Milan (312 CE)

After Maximin Daia refused to end the persecutions of Christians despite Constantine's request Constantine and Licinius allied against Maximin In 313, they met at Mediolanum and issued a decree "Edict of Milan" Proclaimed freedom of religious expression and ordered the return of confiscated properties to the Christian church (actually ended persecutions)

Battle of the Milvian Bridge

Alvarado - 312 CE Constantine arrives with a superior force to battle Maxentius who has control of Rome. Maxentius is defeated outside of city and is killed by his own booby trap on the Milvian bridge as he attempts to retreat into city. Prior to battle, Constantine has vision, tells his army to put Christogram on their shield, credits victory to Christian god.

Constantinople (Byzantium)

Alvarado - Established as a Second Rome in the East by Constantine in 330 CE, with new senate, urban districts, baths and hippodrome. On the Bosporus river, between Europe and Asia. Decorated with pagan cult statues taken from around the empire (Constantine did). Becomes capital of Eastern Empire (later called Byzantine Empire) and persists into 1500 CE, 1000 years after fall of Rome., most land and most Christian area

Cincinnatus

Appointed dictator in response a consul and his army being surrounded by Sabines. As dictator he suspended all public business, ordered shops throughout the city to be closed, and forbad any private business. He then ordered all who were of military age to appear fully armed in the Campus Maritus and those who were beyond this age to cook rations. Upon arriving at the surrounded legion, Cincinnatus ordered that his troops surround the Sabines, give a shout, then dig a trench and fix their palisades; this inspired the surrounded legion, leading to a night battle. Upon defeat, Cincinnatus punished the consul (by demoting him from consul to staff officer) and gave the spoils of the enemy camp only to his soldiers. For this effort he was awarded a triumph upon returning to Rome and resigned his position as dictator after 16 days (appointed for 6 months). Freed xxx, used to be a poor farmer

Ambrose

Aurelius Ambrosius, bishop of Milan. Ambrose was a staunch opponent of Arianism, and has been accused of fostering persecutions of Arians, Jews, and pagans. Ambrose was one of the four original doctors of the Church, and is the patron saint of Milan

Petronius

Author of the Satyricon ("Dinner with Trimalchio") a satirical work written during the reign of Nero. Petronius was a member of the court of Nero, and later became consul in 62AD. In his writing, there were many allusions to members of the court of Nero and other prominent Roman figures. Petronius committed suicide after being accused of treason.

Valentinian I

Bailey - NOT IMPORTANT!

Gnostic Gospel of Thomas

Bailey- contrary to mainstream, related to #45 (Nicene Creed), unifies Christians around core beliefs Theodosius I - Bretzman

Clodius

Bona Dea Scandal: Dressed up as a young woman during the festival with the purpose of going after Caesar's wife Pompeia. Revealed that he was actually a man and kicked out. Accused of committing sacrilege.

Rubicon

Boundary of Gaul and Roman Italy river that Caesar crosses

Bishops

Bretzman - Governors for the Catholic Church, held the most power at this time, held consuls to discuss most of decisions regarding what Christians believe. Such as the Nicene creed

Bishoprics

Bretzman - everything to help Bishops do their job

Theodosian Walls of Constantinople

Built by Theodosius II (408-413) because Constantinople outgrew original boundaries/ walls set by Constantine Used to protect citizens- moat first line of defense, but all sides but west surrounded by water Maintained control until 1453 when Ottomans overtook using gunpowder

Pompeia

Julius Caesar's wife. After the Bona Dea Scandal with Clodius, Caesar divorced her because "I thought my wife ought not even to be under suspicion."

Elagabalus

Cassidy Johnson - From Syria, obsessed with Sol

Carcalla

Cassidy Johnson- son of Septimus Severus, baths of Carcalla, bad emperor-killed his brother(damnatio memoriae), was assassinated

Alaric and the Visigoths

Chief of the Visigoths from 395-410. Was leader of Gothic troops in Roman army but after death of Emperor Theodosius in 395 he left the army and was elected chief of Visigoths Approx. 30,000 of Stilichos barbarian followers were driven into the hands of Alaric (aided in sack of Rome) 408- Alaric marched on rome but relaxed after agreement with Honorius- Second siege in 409 after Honorius stopped payment Army sacked Rome in 410- symbolized the fall of the Western Roman Empire Held Rome for ransom- made lots of money

Monophysite

Christians, mostly from Syria and Egypt, who refused to follow the findings of the Council of Chalcedon (451) that both human and divine aspects can be distinguished in Christ's nature. Instead, Monophysites formed their own group of believers in the "Single Nature" of Christ. (another split in Christianity)

Solidus

Constantine needs money for his growing army, there is not enough gold, so he issues a new coin that only has a fraction of the gold that the aureus had. Some metals are from molten cult statues of pagan religions. Stabilizes economy, increases gap between rich and poor. Helps create a pre-serfdom.

Christians

Continually persecuted throughout the later half of the Roman Empire; Pliny the Younger will ask them 3 times if they are Christian (will kill if answers yes 3 times), don't believe anonymous claims

Pompey

Crisis of pirates in 67 BC(Gabinian Law: gave Pompey imperium anywhere within 50 miles inland of the Mediterranean), part of first triumvirate with Caesar/Crassus, defeated by Julius Caesar during civil war and fled to Egypt, Caesar died at the feet of Pompey's statue (in his theater)

Diplomata

Document comprising a pair of folded bronze tablets that certified the holder's privileges on discharge from military or naval service

Sasanians

Kalupa - The successors to the Parthian empire in the east which proved to be an even greater enemy for Rome

constitutio Antoniniana

Kalupa - a declaration by Caracalla which effectively gave all free people in the empire citizenship.

Aurelian

Emperor from 270-275AD. Had a humble upbringing but rose through military ranks to become emperor. Served under Gallienus and Claudius (Gallienus' successor). During Claudius' reign, he was promoted to head of the Dalmatian Cavalry and was supported by the armies after Claudius' death. His armies named him emperor which was later recognized by the senate. He defeated the Alemmani, Goths, Vandals, Juthingi, Sarmatians, and Carpi, earning the titles Germanicus Maximus and Gothicus Maximus. Due to the threat of Germanic invasion, he erected the Aurelian Walls that surrounded the city of Rome. He conquered the Palmyrene Empire and paraded Queen Zenobia and her son through the city during his triumph. He was given the title Restitutor Orientis, Restorer of the East. He recovered Egypt and the Gallic Empire and was thus given the title Restitutor Orbis, Restorer of the World. Reforms: Restored public buildings Re-organized food management Set fixed prices on certain goods Prosecuted the misconduct of public officers Made the sun god, Sol Invictus, the main divinity of the Pantheon Eventually murdered by his officials because he gave out strict punishments for misdemeanors. Enemies in the senate passed a damnatio memoriae but it was reversed later in the year and he was then deified.

Trajan

Emperor, Wrote to back to Pliny the Younger about whether or not he should persecute Christians (don't seek out, but deal with it as they come). He did not sanction the prosecution of Christians if they renounced their faith when questioned. He didn't allow anonymous evidence to be utilised for prosecutions.

Shapur I

In Persia a new, more aggressive dynasty called the Sasanians had supplanted the Parthians in the 220s and had begun challenging Rome on its eastern border.Under their King of Kings Shapur I (242-272), they reached Antioch (modern Antakya, Turkey) in Syria, sacking it in 253 and again in 260.In the latter year,Shapur even captured alive the emperor Valerian at Edessa (modern Urfa,Turkey) in Osroene.

Edict of Toleration (311 CE)

Issued by Roman Emperor Galerius Ended the Christian Persecution started by Diocletian Granted Christianity status of "religio licita" - worship recognized by the Roman empire Galerius had revived the persecutions of Christians in the East It increased discord among the population Issued Edict of Toleration that revoked the ban on Christian worship Maximin Daia continued persecutions in the east despite edict

Paganus -

Latin word for Pagans, offensive way to call out non-Christians

Stilicho

Long-lasting and most successful official who managed the affairs of Honorius Master of the Soldiers during Theodosius' reign Gained effective control of eastern and western field armies in 395 Ordered the Visigoths to deploy from Epirus, and when he did not show, paid them 40,000 lbs of gold Arrested and executed by Honorius for favoring the Goths and being disloyal to the empire

Council at Chalcedon

Marcian addressed the still-gaping rifts in the church by organizing the fourth ecumenical council at Chalcedon in 451. It restored the Constantinopolitan bishopric to prominence, and issued a new formula describing Christ's nature as consisting of two parts, divine and human, indistinguishably commingles. After Marcian died in 457 with no heir, undistinguished officer, Leo replaced him and maintained both the findings of the council of Chalcedon and the eastern interest in managing affairs in the West.

Asceticism

Mediterranean religious traditions that existed before Christianity. Christian Asceticism differs from paganism in two ways: it argue that all believers, rather than just a selected cadre of holy men and women; the scale of the renunciation. It offered access to salvation and was significant as a means to mark off the holiest Christians

Basilica

Originally civil buildings, transformed into churches

Faustina

Pius' daughter, had up to 15 children (emphasized family)

Odoacer and the Ostrogoths

Reigned 476-493 Retakes Italy for the East and rules it as "King of the Romans" "They had no need of a separate empire, but a single common emperor would be sufficient for both territories" 1st "King of Italy"- reign marks end of the Roman Empire in the West (476)

Justinian

Roman Byzantine emperor- Constantine (527 to 565 CE) Wanted to reunite empire. Fought barbarians who had control in West. Successfully took back parts of Africa and most of Italy giving Rome brief control again Hagia Sophia (holy wisdom): he was a huge financial player in this

Honorius

Roman Emperor from 393-423 CE. Known for a Chaotic reign Son of Theodosius I Co- ruled with his brother Arcadius Became emperor at age 11 Both Honorius and Arcadius were Augusti beforehand Not a strong leader, controlled by a string of officials

Lepcis Magna

Roman Province in Africa and birthplace of Severus Septimius. Famous for olive oil exports. Near Tripoli, Libya. Septimius spent a lot of money to "urbanize" Leptis Magna, this was the first time an emperor spent large amount of money on a city outside of Rome, built a port, theaters, and other structures. Victory arch of Septimius Severus

Diocletian

Roman emperor (284-305), became emperor after deaths of Emperor Carus and his son Numerian (title also claimed by Carus' other son (Carinus) but Diocletian defeated him in Battle of Margus), appointed Maximian as Augustus (co-emperor) in 286, also appointed Galerius and Constantius as Caesars, junior co-emperors; tetrarchy (rule of four), each emperor ruled over quarter-division of empire, Edict of Prices (more later). Marks the beginning of Dominate (as opposed to Principate)

Maximian

Roman emperor (286-305), military brawn of duo (Diocletian was political brain), suppressed rebels in Gaul, in late 306 took title of Augustus and aided son Maxentius' rebellion in Italy; in November 308 Diocletian and Galerius forces Maximian to renounce his imperial claim; attempted to seize Constantine's title in early 310, small support and was captured; committed suicide in summer of 310 on Constantine's orders.

Galerius

Roman emperor (305-311), campaigns against Sassanid Empire (sacked capital Ctesiphon in 299), Danube against Carpi (defeated in 297 and 300); opponent of Christianity, ended Diocletianic Persecution (issued edict of toleration in 311)

Horatii

Roman triplets that fought against another set of triplets from Alba Longa known as the Curatii (during the reign of Tullus Hostilius). It was agreed that the result of this battle would determine the outcome of the war. During the battle 2 of the Horatii were killed, while all 3 of the Curatii were injured. The lone surviving Horatii brother turned and ran in an effort to separate his 3 opponents, which allowed him to easily defeat all 3 in 1-on-1 combat. Upon returning to Rome with the spoils of war, the victorious Horatius' sister cried out in grief as she had been engaged to marry. This enraged Horatius, causing him to murder his sister in broad daylight claiming, "So perish any Roman woman who mourns the enemy". For this murder Horatius was sentenced to death, but upon the advice of his father a group an assembly of the people acquitted Horatius.

Edict on Maximum Prices

Thomas- Issued in 301 by Diocletian. Was used to set a formal price ceiling on goods (thousands of goods were specifically mentioned with the maximum price on the document) and reform the inflation crisis throughout the Empire at the time. The Edict set a death penalty for those disobeying the rules of order. The Edict also set the wages for workers and military legionaries and officials. Most expensive items were a lion and purple silk

Christian persecutions

Search for Christians throughout the Roman Empire under the rule of Decius. The Persecutions in the second centuries proved to be dangerous to Christians as they were to be executed or to be killed by mobs during this time. Other punishment during the persecutions consisted of torture and execution. Those who were believed to be Christian were ordered to commit blasphemy against Jesus Christ and take part in the State religion's sacrifices. The stories of martyrdom and bravery of Christians through the persecutions is actually believed to have strengthened Christianity. First Persecution- 249-251- empire wide sacrifice and resulted within thousands of deaths from mob violence Second Persecution- 257-260- targeted clergy, high status men, and women of Christian faith and were sentenced to execution or exile. Third persecution- 303-311- Started by Diocletian and Galerius to destruct Christian places of worship and targeted honestiores (higher class citizens). Then sort of ended with the Edict of Toleration, but more ended with the Edict of Milan.

Constantius

Second son of Constantine, made ruler of East and Asia minor, while his brothers Constantine and Constans had Africa, Western Europe and Rome. His brothers are killed and their regions are usurped. King Shapur of the Sassanids make incursions in the East during his reign. He subdues the usurpers and becomes single ruler. Appoints Julian to Gaul. Julian challenges him, Constantius dies in the way to subdue him.

Tacitus

Senator and historian, Wrote the histories which discussed the year of the four emperors, this is who Pliny the Younger was writing to

Sirmium

Sirmium had 100,000 inhabitants and was one of the biggest cities of its time. In the East, Diocletian remained in Sirmium (modern Sremska Mitrovica, Serbia)near the Danube while Galerius was sent to the eastern frontier to guard against the new Sasanian King of Kings, Narses. Augusta Treverorum (modern Trier, Germany) in Gaul, Milan in northern Italy, Serdica (modern Sofia,Bulgaria), Sirmium and Thessalonica in the Balkans, and Nicomedia and Antioch in the East, were all rebuilt to accommodate the tetrarchs. > one of first capitals of Tetrarch (try to build into new territories)

Pulcheria

Sister of Theodosius II Encouraged Theodosius to devote himself to personal piety rather than military campaigns Played an important role in the conduct of state affairs for Theodosius II Dedicated herself to virginity in order to help establish a court atmosphere similar to a monastery Married Emperor Marcian at age 51 - did not produce an heir

Martyrs

Somebody who is persecuted for religious belief. When ordered to sacrifice and to curse Christ, they refused, showing unshakable faith. Martyrdom of Perpetua contains a martyr's retelling of another martyr's tale as a way to strengthen their conviction. Came from Greek "Witness"

Maxentius

Son of Maximian (last ruler of tetrarchy). Built a giant villa. Defeated by Constantine (called him a tyrant)

Ammianus

Syrian author, native greek speaker. Wrote a history of Rome. He was a soldier and wrote of first hand accounts about the Roman military life.

Adrianople

The Gothic forces defeated the Romans near Adrianople. Battle of Adrianople, sometimes known as the Battle of Hadrianopolis, was fought between an Eastern Roman army led by the Eastern Roman Emperor Valens and Gothic rebels (largely Thervings as well as Greutungs, non-Gothic Alans, and various local rebels) led by Fritigern. The battle took place about 13 km (8 mi) north of Adrianople (modern Edirne in European Turkey, near the border with Greece and Bulgaria) in the Roman province of Thracia. It ended with an overwhelming victory for the Goths and the death of Emperor Valens. Massacre or Roman soldiers

Reasons for the fall

Too large of land borders - Failing economy - No new technology - Lack of person power - (bonus) dynastic failures - (bonus) barbarian invasions

Comitatus

The Late Empire's mobile officials were referred to as the comitatus because they travelled in the emperor's company Consisted of 6 or more chief officials (don't need to know names) The Chief of the Sacred Bedchamber The Count of the Sacred Largesses The Count of the Privy Purse The Quaestor of the Sacred Palace The Master of the Offices The Praetorian Prefects

Sabine women

The Rape of the Sabine women occurred when the first generation of romans needed wives. They took them from neighboring Sabine families. The romans unsuccessfully tried to compromise with the Sabines, and so the romans decided to take the Sabine women at a festival. Livy claims no sexual assault took place.

Goths

The Roman provinces along the lower Danube were often attacked by Goths, a Germanic people who by this time had migrated and settled beside the Black Sea. In addition to Rome's Danubian territory—where they defeated and killed the emperor Decius in Lower Moesia in 251—the Goths also assaulted Roman provinces in northern Asia Minor, sacking Trapezus (modern Trabzon, Turkey) in 256. Goths and Heruli invaded the Balkans, and sacked Athens, Delphi, and other Greek centers in 267

Constantine

The first christian Roman emperor. He came in after the dissolution of the tetrarchy/ part of why they dissolved. He initiated a system of 5-man rule. In 313, issued the Edict of Milan. Arch of Constantine (victory at Milvian Bridge, wrote Tyrant about a fellow Roman rather than Barbarian), committed a spoliation(recycling of architecture). Made a giant colossus of himself and the basilica.

Lucretia

The wife of Lucius Tarquinius Collatinus (one of the first two consuls of the Roman Republic). In the historical legend, Lucius Collatinus and Sextus Tarquinius (Tarquinius Superbus' son) were debating the virtues of wives when Lucius volunteered to settle the debate by all of them riding to his home to see whose wife was the most virtuous. Lucretia proved to be the most virtuous of all the wives. At night Sextus entered her bedroom and gave her two choices; either submit to having sex with him and become his wife/future queen or he would kill her and one of her slaves and place the bodies together indicating adulterous sex. Following this rape, Lucretia revealed what had happened and then stabbed herself with a concealed dagger (representing the ultimate virtuous Roman wife). The incident sparked public outrage, eventually leading to an anti-monarchist rebellion that overthrew the monarchy, resulting in the formation of the Roman Republic (in the 5th century B.C.).

Christianity

Thomas- Christianity gained a lot of traction after the persecutions of the second and third centuries AD. The stories of martyrdoms and those of strong faith inspired others to join the movement towards a monotheistic religion. The scripture and beliefs of Christianity were well received by Women, poor, slaves, and other oppressed people during this time as Christianity served as a means to have a better life later on (in the afterlife). Few of the rich and powerful Roman Citizens were Christian until Constantine. "A major reason for the hostility shown to Christians may well have been their general refusal to assist the community in civil or military capacity during a period when such help was urgently needed" (425).

Constantine

Thomas- Emperor from 306-337 AD. Overthrew and defeated various other ambitious citizens at the time to achieve the status of Emperor. Responsible for Rome's conversion to Christianity, specifically started in 313 with the Edict of Milan which proclaimed tolerance for Christianity within the Empire. Created The Gold Standard to stabilize Rome's Economy. Battle of Milvian Bridge- saw chi rho (symbol Χ and ρ).

Tetrarchs

a division of sorts of the empire in 293 by Diocletian; he made Maximian his co-emperor and ruler in the west while he ruled in the east. These two were called "Augusti." Beneath them were two subordinates, Constantius in the west and Galerius in the east. They were called "Caesars." This system was successful under a strong ruler like Diocletian. This was proven when a revolt in Egypt by the usurper Domitius Domitianus was put down successfully by Diocletian when Galerius was engaged in Persia. A revolt like this may have been detrimental to the empire if there had only been one emperor. Milan and Cermium

Mark

author of the oldest of the four Gospels; supposedly traveled with Peter at times; founded the diocese of Alexandria where he became an influential bishop

Peter

called the first pope because he was the bishop of Rome; died in Rome under Nero (ca. 64 CE)

Split (Spalato)

city in Croatia where Diocletian had a palace (intended for retirement)

Commodus

concluded Marcomannic wars in first five months of his sole rule. Had peace treaty with Marcomanni and Quadi that included one time recruitment of a large number of their young men. Returned to rome and had a second triumph. He gave his council of advisors great power to exercise. Major concerns of his involved his personal gratification and that of Rome's masses. Liked to appear in untraditional public roles like beast hunter and fancied himself a great gladiator. Supposedly killed thousands of animals and fought 365 times in gladiatorial games under his father's rule. In 190, he lost power, which went to his mistress and one of his servants. His dangerous instability (wanted to rename Rome "Colonia Commodiana" among fighting in games and such) led to his assassination in December 31, 192 AD.

damnatio memoriae

damning of the memory. After the death of individuals who were named enemies of the state by the senate, measures were taken to blot their name out of their memory. Involved destroying images, literature, and any public records that included that "enemy"Domitian's memory was condemned by the senate after his assassination

Tullia

daughter of Cicero; very educated woman of the late republic

Lavinia

daughter of Latinus; new wife of Aeneas and stepmother of Iulus; temporary ruler after Aeneas's death until Iulus comes of age, according to Livy

Philip the Arab

emperor Philip "the Arab" (who came from the region of Damascus). Imperial inscriptions and coins insistently cite Roma Aeterna (Eternal Rome) and describe emperors as Invictus (Unconquerable) and the like. Emperors are not coming from every corners

Decius

emperor from 249-251. He issued an edict ordering all citizens to perform a religious sacrifice in the presence of commissioners. This resulted in empire-wide Christian persecutions. He was killed at Abrittus with his co-emperor (his son, Herennius) by Goths. This was the first time Rome had lost an emperor in battle against a foreign enemy

Cult of Isis

example of foreign worship in Rome; Egyptian goddess of agriculture and wealth; promise of rebirth; especially popular with slaves and women

Creusa

first wife of Aeneas; lost at Troy; representative of female sacrifice for roman character (mentioned in Livy)

Publius Aelius Aristides

highly influential orator, a wealthy landowner from Anatolia whose family received Roman citizenship in 123. He delivered a panegyric, a formal speech of praise, regarding to Pax Romana. His speech influenced attitudes of many ruling Roman elites.

Romulus Augustus

last emperor of Western Rome, a kid (bore the name of its first king and first emperor). When he refused to reward his barbarian auxiliaries, he was deposed and exiled by a general of mixed barbarian race, Odoacer, in September 476. He was young.

Brutus and Cassius

main killers of Caesar, killed by Antony (wanted him out of Rome)

Cleopatra

mistress of Caesar and Antony, Egyptian ruler with Greek blood, symbol of lust, had child with Caesar. Threat to Rome.

Gallienus

mperor with his father, Valerian, from 253-260 and then sole emperor from 260 until his assassination in 268. Ruled during the Crisis of the Third Century. Stayed in Italy and tried to maintain control of the Western side of the empire. Revolt of Ingenuus - declared himself emperor while Gallienus was away Alemmani Invasion - made it through Germany and reached Rome but pushed back and defeated by Gallienus' forces Regalian declares himself emperor - killed by the Roxolani under Gallienus' orders (?) Revolt of the Macriani - Macrianus makes his two sons emperors but Gallienus sends orders to have them taken care of Gallienus loses control of Britain, Spain, parts of Germania, and part of Gaul Revolt of Postumus - declares his own realm in Gaul and named emperor by his troops, kills Gallienus' son. Expelled by Gallienus but Gallic Empire stays independent Revolt of Aemilianus - Prefect of Egypt who had supported the Macriani but defeated in a decisive battle near Thebes Gothic Invasions from the Heruli Revolt of Aureolus - Gallienus' military commander who pretended to be on his side but was actually working with Postumus. Defeated in a siege and driven back to Milan Gallianus was eventually murdered by his own officials. He created the Comitatenses which were cavalry units that could be dispatched anywhere in the empire in a short time, forbade senators from being military commanders (limited the power of the senate), and made the Decree of Tolerance after Valerian's capture that restored places of worship and cemeteries to the Christians. This implied recognition that the Church had property but didn't turn it into an official religion.

Pliny the Elder (uncle of Pliny the Younger

was a Roman author, naturalist, and natural philosopher, as well as naval and army commander of the early Roman Empire, and personal friend of the emperor Vespasian. He died at Mt. Vesuvius trying to save his friend Pomponianus

Pomponianus

was at Stabiae during the Eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, he was stuck to the shore because he was not favoured by the wind, so was greeted by Pliny The Elder in order to help him escape the increasing danger. He had then decided whether he and his friends had the choice of staying inside and having the roof fall on their heads because of the buildup of pumice, or to go outside and risk being hit by falling pumice and ash. He died after going outside.