Understanding Ancient Roman Moral Values
Ah Boy, Romans are hard to get your head around. They had legislated laws from the Senate and Centurions to uphold the law. The idea of sex between consenting adults knew no boundaries. Heterosexual or homosexual was widely practiced. Mistresses were not frowned upon and marriages could be dissolved with ease. Julius Caesar lived openly with Queen Cleopatra and their son while his wife Calpurnia was in their original home. Later, Mark Antony and Cleopatra had three children. Romans were very sophisticated and displayed good manners, but let a slave drop a wine decanter and the slave could get a dagger in the throat. They liked certain gladiatorial contests, which would be unwatchable by today's standards. They worshiped any number of gods and often consulted Sibyls and fortune tellers. Drunken orgies were common, even though women would never go out in public without modest clothing. They're a tough bunch to understand.
Virtues of Ancient Roman Society
Virtues like discipline, obligation, and respect for authority were highly valued in ancient Roman morality. Loyalty, bravery, honesty, and piety were other essential characteristics. Romans also valued family and the significance of upholding one's duties to one's parents, husband, and children.
Deeply Rooted in Culture and Law
Roman moral values were deeply rooted in their culture and shaped by their history and beliefs. Romans placed a strong emphasis on virtues such as courage, self-discipline, loyalty, and respect for authority. The concept of pietas (duty and reverence for the gods) was highly valued, reflecting their religious practices. Additionally, Romans valued honesty, fairness, and justice. This was reflected in their legal system, which emphasized the importance of treating all citizens equally under the law.
Role of the Emperor and Personal Exemplars
What were ancient Roman values like? It was the duty of the Roman emperor to set examples of moral values. The people of Rome followed the examples set by the emperor. For instance, a child with his father would learn values like honesty and hard work. It was up to the emperor to set the standards for his subjects. A general leading his army set examples by leading from the front. These are just a few examples of ancient Roman values.
The legal system of ancient Rome was a fundamental part of its societal structure. Laws such as the Twelve Tables framed early Roman legal principles, emphasizing justice and fairness through codified laws. The idea of a republic was central to Roman morality, with citizens expected to participate in civic duties and maintain the integrity of the state. Community and family ties were crucial, reinforcing the concept of pietas and the duty to one's family and fellow citizens.
Conclusion
Understanding ancient Roman moral values requires delving into the complex dynamics of their society. While certain aspects may seem foreign or misunderstood, the core values of discipline, loyalty, and respect for authority still resonate. Through their legal system, religion, and the role of the emperor, Roman moral values were deeply ingrained in every aspect of their daily lives.