Week 2 Flashcards
The Etruscans and The Foundation of Rome
Who were the Etruscans and their origins?
Pre-Roman civilization in ancient Italy. Possibly were Pelasgians originally from Thessaly, or Indo-European languages.
What were some key characteristics of the Protovillanovans, and what periods of development did they undergo?
Pre-Etruscan peoples who underwent periods of Early Bronze Age, Middle Bronze Age, and Final Bronze Age developments. Communal practices, socio-political standards, and settlement development
Discuss the Villanovans and their significance in early Italian history.
Existed during the Iron Age, around 900 BCE.
Evidence of social status variation, specialization, and dispersal of wealth, with distinct ceramic styles and metalworking practices.
What were some common features of Villanovan metalworking and burial practices?
Fibulae, spearheads, axes, swords, helmets, shields, and hut urns. Use of large amphorae, globular jugs, and bowls, often accompanied by weapons and personal item
Describe the hut urns used by the Villanovans, including their construction and purpose.
From 1000 to 700 BCE. They were mimicked after real huts, constructed with wattle and daub on a circular base, and adorned with acroteria decorations on the roof. These urns served as burial containers
What was the significance of bucchero pottery in Etruscan culture, and how was it different from other pottery styles?
Fine clay, polished finish, and incised decoration. Fired with less oxygen, resulting in a darker color and sheen.
Describe some features of Etruscan burial practices, including tomb architecture and burial customs.
Used tumuli and stelai (tomb markers) and painted tombs, with variations in burial customs based on regional differences. Could include inhumation, cremation, and/or painted tombs
What is the mythological foundation story of Rome, and who were its central figures?
Romulus and Remus, twin brothers born to Rhea Silvia, daughter of Numitor, and Mars, the god of war. Raised by a she-wolf and later found by a shepherd named Faustulus after their grandfather Numitor was restored to the throne by their actions.
What were some architectural elements of Etruscan towns, and how did they reflect Etruscan societal values?
Rusellae (ancient town of Etruria) featured atrium-style structures with tablina (entryway) and impluviums (basin in atrium), reflecting a focus on hospitality and family life. Communal living and social cohesion.
Describe the early remains associated with the foundation of Rome, including the Casa Romuli.
Iron Age hut on the Palatine Hill constructed with wattle and daub. The hut, oval-shaped, dates back to 900-700 BCE and exhibits signs of destruction and fires.
What was the significance of Sant’Ombono (Forum Boarium)?
“Cattle market,” was a hub for trade along the Tiber and housed various religious sites, including the temple of Fortune and Mater Matua.
Who were Romulus and Remus? What were the circumstances surrounding Remus’s death?
Twin brothers and the legendary founders of Rome. Remus was killed by Romulus during a dispute over the location and naming of the new city, leading to the establishment of Rome by Romulus.
What was the The rape of the Sabines?
Seeking wives in order to establish families, Romans invited the neighboring Sabine people to a festival. At a signal from their leader, Romulus, the Romans abducted the young women and wed them.
What does the Aristonothos krater mean to Roman history?
cross-cultural relationship between Greeks and Etruscans
What is the reason for the loss of Etruscan identity?
Loss of language and imposition of Roman laws
