Prior to the fall of the empire, the military expansion of Rome brought about a period of substantial material wealth to the Roman state. At this time, the abundance of wealth contributed significantly to stratified social classes. The levels of social status were clearly defined in ancient Roman society. The emperor had the highest level of status in ancient Rome. His picture was displayed throughout the empire. Wealthy citizens could aspire to become senators, who had the second highest status in ancient Roman society. Men in the senatorial class wore broadly striped tunics. The legions and auxiliary troops had the third highest status. This is in some ways ironic, since Rome achieved its power due to their exploits. Craftsmen and merchants were often slaves who had bought their freedom. Some worked as laborers in large workshops, while others owned their own shops. Slaves had the lowest level of status. However, they were sometimes set free by their owners. This allowed them to improve their status by becoming a merchant or a craftsman. Some have argued that women, who enjoyed very few rights in Rome, were in fact lower in status than slaves. Much like the cosmopolitan cities of today, in ancient Rome, material displays of wealth were pertinent to social status. If material indication of status and rank were not seen in public, the individual was considered to be without any status at all. Both jewelry and garments reflected an individual's social status, as well as various objects of art that were found in the homes of noblemen and senators. Specially designed wax masks of nobility, called imagines, were displayed prominently in their homes. Today, a variety of ancient Roman antiques are available for purchase. While Roman coins seem to be the most accessible, it is also possible to find art, ancient maps, statues, and jewelry. |
