The potential benefits of studying Roman daily life are twofold. In addition, we will continually work to approach this material from the vantage point of those at the margins, especially women, slaves and freedmen, children, and non-Romans. Through our analysis of all types of evidence, from wall paintings to architecture to graffiti, we will develop our understanding of many aspects of Roman daily life including food, sex, slavery, fashion, friendship, entertainment, education, work, and death. We will also investigate every corner of Pompeii, from its grandest houses to its inns, forum, baths, bars, and brothel, including concentrated time every afternoon reading together the epigraphy from the ancient Bay of Naples.
The core of the seminar experience will be the daily translation and discussion of the Latin text of Petronius’ Satyricon. This three-week online summer seminar for K-12 teachers offers an opportunity to explore various topics of Roman daily life through an in-depth examination of these two bodies of evidence. The most important and engaging sources for Roman daily life are the Satyricon of Petronius and the city of Pompeii. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this summer seminar, do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
This summer seminar has been made possible in part by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities.
