As part of my research for the sequel to Even Gods Are Blind, I have been focusing on how Claudia can fit into her new role and look the part… no spoilers! I am already quite familiar with the fashions of that period but I wanted to read more about how rich women cared for themselves. I picked up my copy of The Love Poems by Ovid as he has a amusing section for just that thing. Ovid, a renowned Roman poet, penned the poem “Medicamina Faciei Femineae” (Cosmetics for Women) as part of his larger work, “Ars Amatoria” (The Art of Love). In this poem, Ovid offers advice to…
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Beyond the Tombs: Unveiling the Vibrant World of the Etruscans
Imagine yourself stepping into a dimly lit tomb. Walls adorned with vibrant frescoes depict scenes of athletic competitions, elegant banquets, and fantastical creatures. This is a glimpse into the captivating world of the Etruscans, an enigmatic civilization that thrived in ancient Italy long before the rise of Rome. Flourishing between the 8th and 3rd centuries BCE, the Etruscans were not just skilled artisans and architects, but also a people steeped in rich traditions and a complex religious belief system. Despite the challenges of deciphering their language, the Etruscans’ influence on Roman culture, politics, and society remains undeniable. Their legacy lives on through the enduring achievements of the Roman civilization, shaping…
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Happy Birthday, Rome!
Today, April 21st, marks the legendary founding of the Eternal City – Rome! I received an invitation from Nova Roma, a group based in Rome that celebrates all things ancient Roman, to join the celebrations this year. Unfortunately, we were unable to attend today as it is always an amazing day. According to tradition, the city was established by Romulus in 753 BC. While the exact date might be shrouded in myth, there’s no doubt that Rome’s rich history and enduring legacy continue to capture our imaginations. Celebrating Natale di Roma Italians celebrate Rome’s birthday with a vibrant festival called “Natale di Roma” (Birthday of Rome). The festivities typically last…
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Where Rome Never Falls – Romanitas book review
“Romanitas” by Sophia McDougall is an imaginative alternate history novel that explores a world where the Roman Empire never fell. It’s a gripping tale that combines elements of political intrigue, character-driven drama, and speculative fiction to create a thought-provoking narrative. Romanitas – Follow the link to Amazon UK, as part of my Affiliate programme. Plot Overview:The novel is set in a modern-day world where the Roman Empire continues to thrive and dominate the global stage. The story follows three main characters: Gaius, a Roman Praetorian Guard; Lucius, the rightful heir to the throne; and Una, a British slave who possesses a secret that could change the course of history. The…
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Time Capsule Treasures: The Secrets of Vicarello’s Votive Deposit
Certainly, here’s an improved version: For centuries, the Votive Deposit of Vicarello lay concealed, a captivating archaeological revelation that offers a tantalizing window into the ancient customs and beliefs of a bygone era. Discovered in 1852 near Italy’s picturesque Bracciano Lake, this exceptional trove of coins, metals, and flint tools has consistently held the fascination of historians and archaeologists. My own fascination with this discovery was sparked during a visit to Rome’s Palazzo Massimo. In its vast basement vault, I encountered hundreds of coins from ancient Rome and a captivating display on the Vicarello find, a discovery just a stone’s throw away from my own home, so I felt a…
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A Review of “Tribune of Rome” by Robert Fabbri
“The Tribune of Rome” by Robert Fabbri is the first in the series of gripping historical novels that thrusts readers into the tumultuous world of ancient Rome, immersing them in a saga of political intrigue, military prowess, and complex characters. Fabbri’s masterful storytelling skilfully blends history with fiction, creating a narrative that is both educational and entertaining. Plot Overview: Set in the first century AD, during the tumultuous reign of Emperor Tiberius, the novel follows the life of Vespasian, a character based on the historical figure who eventually became Emperor. Vespasian’s journey from a lowly military tribune to a powerful and influential figure in Rome is at the heart of…
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The Mighty Legions: Unveiling the Roman Army’s Secrets
Few military forces have left a mark as indelible as the legions of ancient Rome. The Roman army, renowned for its discipline, organization, and sheer might, played a pivotal role in shaping the course of Western civilization. Join us on a journey into the heart of this formidable military machine, where we’ll explore not only its structure but also delve into the daily life of a Roman soldier, from their standard equipment to their meagre yet meaningful pay. Structure of the Legions: The backbone of the Roman army was its intricate structure, a system that ensured efficiency and cohesion on the battlefield. At its zenith, the Roman army consisted of…
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Rome’s First Emperor – 5 Fascinating Facts about Caesar Augustus
In the annals of history, few figures shine as brilliantly as Caesar Augustus. The man who would become Rome’s first emperor left an indelible mark on the ancient world, reshaping the destiny of an empire and birthing a new era. In this blog post, we embark on a journey through time to explore the life, reign, and enduring legacy of Caesar Augustus, a name synonymous with power, vision, and transformation. Here are five amazing facts that illuminate the life of this extraordinary leader. 1. The Triumvirate and Civil War: One of the defining moments in Augustus’s ascent to power was his close association with Julius Caesar. Augustus, originally known as…
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Slaves in Ancient Rome: Origins, Roles, Aspirations, and Revolts
Ancient Rome stands as a formidable empire renowned for its military might, architectural marvels, and enduring legacy. It is my favourite subject and period in time and I can talk about it for hours. Yet, beneath the grandeur of the Roman Republic and Empire lay a complex and often overlooked facet of society: the institution of slavery. In this exploration, we delve into the lives of slaves in ancient Rome, shedding light on their origins, roles, aspirations, and the intricate web of social, economic, and ethical complexities that defined their existence. The Origins of Roman Slavery Slavery in ancient Rome had diverse sources. Slaves could be captured in warfare, born…
