Classical Studies 2300 Chapter Notes - Chapter 6-12: Ludi Romani, Torchlight, Loincloth

• School: Western University
• Department: Classical Studies
• Course: Classical Studies 2300
• Professor: Angela Nissen

Document Summary

Romes had own games/ludi emphasizing spectacle not competitive sport like the greeks. Earliest- ludi romani late 6th c bce: tarquinius priscus (tarquin) presented a contest of horses and boxers brought from. Etruria: held in circus maximus, probably following etruscan tradition (not greek influences)- unknown if romans had musical accompaniment like the etruscans. Over time wrestling and distance footraces (up to 128 miles) in cm: assume betting on races and that athletes were associated w certain chariot team. Julius caesar held successful festival for athletes in stadium specifically constructed for event: held over 3 days- assume full athletic program. Greek style athletics never became as popular in rome as greece and never threatened the preeminence of gladiatorial shows/chariot racing in italy. Romans had no traditions of athletics mythological heroes or ed. Romulus and remus exercised bodies by boxing, javelin/stone throwing, running on the plain. Oldest record of sport in rome largely upper classes- hunting, riding, activities preparing for military.