Human Heritage: A World History

"Life in Roman Times"

Introduction
You learned in this chapter that during the reign of Augustus, Rome’s first emperor, Rome entered a period of peace called the Pax Romana. Rome and its people generally prospered during this 200-year period. Civilization spread, trade increased, and cultures mixed. In this activity you will take a closer look at the social order and daily life of the people who lived in the Roman Empire.

Destination Title: The Roman Empire in the First Century

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Directions
Start at the PBS Web site’s feature on the Roman Empire in the First Century.

• Use the links across the top of the page to read about each of the five social classes in the Roman Empire: Emperors, Senators, Equestrians, Plebeians, and Slaves.
• Then click on the “Life in Roman Times” link on the left of the screen.
• Use the links across the top of the page to read about different aspects of Roman life: Marriage and Family, Entertainment, Religious Practices, etc.
• Apply what you have learned by answering the following questions.

1			Was it possible for Roman people to move up the social ladder? Explain.
2			What is the significance of the phrase “bread and circuses”?
3			Describe how a marriage was decided in Roman times.
4			What were lares? How did Roman families honor their lares?
5			Imagine that you live in the Roman Empire. Decide to which social class you belong, and write three journal entries about your daily life. Apply information you learned from the Web site to make your personal journal realistic.