Life in the Roman Empire was shaped by customs that molded each citizen’s education and development. From birth, Roman children learned essential values that prepared them for their future. Here, we explore the daily life of two young Romans: Tiberius and Claudia.
Childhood: The Early Years in the Roman Empire
From birth, Roman children were introduced to the traditions of Rome. Tiberius and Claudia were born into a middle-class family in Pompeii. On the ninth day of life, their lustratio was celebrated, a cleansing ritual that offered divine protection and welcomed them into life.
In this ritual, they were given a bulla, an amulet protecting against the evil eye and negative energies. This amulet was an essential part of Roman life and was worn until adolescence. It served as a constant reminder of the gods’ protection over the children.
Early Years: Education and Games in Ancient Rome
At seven years old, Tiberius and Claudia’s paths began to differ, reflecting Rome’s social customs.
Tiberius attended school, where his teacher, called a litterator, taught him to read, write, and calculate. This education included using wax tablets to practice writing. A typical Roman child’s day included learning values of respect, loyalty, and bravery.
Tiberius also participated in games that developed skills. His favorite was the trochlea, where he had to keep a hoop rolling with a stick. Another popular game was latrunculi, a strategic board game similar to chess that honed his critical thinking.
Claudia, on the other hand, was taught at home under her mother’s guidance. The education of Roman girls focused on domestic skills that prepared them for their future roles as wives and mothers. Claudia learned to spin, weave, and manage provisions, essential skills for Roman middle-class families.
Some Roman girls, like Claudia, also received basic reading and writing lessons. This knowledge would be useful for managing a future household and contributing to the home’s economy, although formal education was uncommon for women in Rome.
Adolescence: Preparation for Adult Life
By the age of 15, Tiberius and Claudia were taking on new responsibilities. Adolescence was a crucial stage in the Roman Empire, marking the transition to adulthood.
Tiberius began spending more time with his father in the marketplace, learning commercial skills. He learned to observe and analyze customers and handle finances, a key part of daily life in the Roman Empire. Additionally, Tiberius trained physically, building strength and skills for military service, a duty for young Roman men.
Claudia continued refining her domestic skills. Her mother taught her to manage the household economy, ensuring the provisions were sufficient. This training allowed her to learn the values of obedience, organization, and devotion, which were fundamental in the life of a woman in the Empire.
Core Values in Roman Life
The values of pietas (devotion), fides (loyalty), and virtus (bravery) were key teachings for all young Romans. Tiberius and Claudia grew up with a deep respect for these values, which guided their decisions and contributed to the well-being of their families and Rome.
By age 15, both young people were ready to assume their roles in society. Tiberius, prepared to serve and protect Rome, and Claudia, with the skills to manage a household, were ready to face life in the Roman Empire and carry on family traditions.
