Valeria Messalina, wife of Emperor Claudius, was known for her alleged promiscuity and political machinations. Executed in 48 AD for marrying another man, her controversial legacy persists.
Discover how the Roman Republic's ingenious political safeguards—from the dual consul system to strict term limits—offer powerful solutions to today's democratic vulnerabilities and governance crises.
Roman copies of Greek statues reveal insights into cultural exchanges, showcasing how Romans adapted Greek art to their ideals, reflecting different beauty standards.
Roman portrait sculpture evolved from hyper-realism in the Republican Era to abstract spirituality in the Constantinian period, reflecting changing cultural ideals.
Explore the Stoic philosophy's perspective on fate and free will, highlighting its balance in Roman literature and history. Discover how Stoics, like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius, navigated the interplay between divine providence and personal responsibility, and its relevance in today's discussions on determinism and moral choice.
Ancient Rome, founded in 753 BC, evolved from a monarchy to a republic, and finally an empire, marking key events like the Republic's establishment in 509 BC and its fall in AD 476.
During the Roman Empire, literature and art thrived, influenced by Greek culture, with notable figures like Virgil and Horace, alongside advanced architecture and accessible art forms.
A concise overview of the Roman Republic's political structure and its decline: Initially designed to prevent tyranny through a balance of power, the Republic faced internal conflicts due to economic and social tensions. These conflicts led to civil wars, as figures like Sulla, Pompey, and Octavian struggled for control, ultimately dismantling the Republic and paving the way for autocratic rule.
Explore the pivotal role of the Vestal Virgins in ancient Rome, from maintaining the sacred flame at the Temple of Vesta to their influence on religion and politics. Discover how these priestesses embodied purity and ensured divine favor for the city's prosperity.
Explore the political dynamics of the Roman Republic, highlighting the roles of Cicero and Julius Caesar in the struggle between Republicanism and autocracy, which ultimately transformed Roman governance.
