Political Structure Of The Roman Empire Theology Essay Example

This dissemination of information enhanced relations with other nations and added an aura of mystery to the political structure of Rome.

The impact of Roman civilization continued to influence people and artists for centuries afterward. Notably, Michelangelo in the 16th century A.D. spread Roman architecture and literature throughout Europe. Even today, elements of Roman influence can be observed in Western traditions.

Mathematics is one area where this influence stands out prominently; many theories and principles developed by Greek/Roman thinkers like Archimedes form the foundation of geometry. Furthermore, Roman influence extends to inventions and innovations in fields such as weaponry and architecture. The Romans laid the groundwork for theoretical and practical sciences including botany.

In particular, early Roman scientists extensively researched various plants found within their region and documented their findingsThe fathers of botany, Aristotle and Theophrastus, influenced the classification and naming of plants. Although there may not be an obvious correlation between advances in mathematics and political development, Rome's embrace of mathematical concepts allowed politicians to exploit their versatility for personal gain. This led to the establishment of economic sciences that improved trade practices and contributed to the growth of the Roman Empire. Many economic and political ideas followed in Western countries today can be traced back to Ancient Romans, such as the utilization of the Roman senate system by several Western nations. Additionally, the Romans introduced interest in business and loans, which are fundamental principles in today's global economy. Greek/Roman philosophers like Aristotle and Socrates also played significant roles in shaping Roman influence, with subsequent generations building upon their original ideas in Western countries. Furthermore, Roman art had exceptional influence on artists during the Renaissance and Enlightenment

periods; many took inspiration from Roman techniques. For example, Michelangelo heavily incorporated Roman art into his sculptures and wall paintings (See Illustration 2). The influence of Roman art can be traced back to the Greeks who passed it on to the Romans before spreading it throughout Western Europe.Roman society and the Empire made a significant contribution through their development and spread of Roman Law. They built upon the foundation established by the Greeks, turning it into a sophisticated legal system over approximately one thousand years. Starting from the 12 tables in 449 BC to Justinian's codifications around 530 BC, they incorporated methods and concepts from Greek philosophy to address legal problems. This led to the emergence of a legal profession and scholarly treaties on Roman law. The peak of Roman legal science occurred in the 2nd century AD during the 'principate', supported by favorable economic and political conditions for scholarly activity. However, this era came to an end in the third century without a clear explanation. Following that period was a decline in Roman legal culture that even Emperor Justinian's efforts during his reign in sixth century AD could not stop. Nonetheless, Justinian preserved much of the classical legal experts' literary legacy by including their writings in his codifications. The most important part of this codification is the Digest, compiled in 533, which consists of an extensive collection of excerpts from classical textbooks and commentaries.During the early Middle Ages, Roman law was initially unknown in Western Europe but later rediscovered in Italy around 1070. The teachings of classical legal scholars preserved in the Digest became the foundation for Continental European legal systems. Considered one of

the most influential books in European history, the Digest had a significant impact on Rome's political structure.

Religion played a crucial role in shaping Rome's political structure. By 120 AD, Rome had established itself as a formidable empire and its history was intertwined with its mythology. The Romans worshipped various Gods and goddesses who maintained a delicate balance between good and evil to ensure people's happiness. This belief formed the basis for both the Roman Empire itself and its political structure/society.

Ovid effectively depicted the relationship between Gods and humans in his work Metamorphoses. For example, he portrayed Jupiter punishing Lycaon, also known as the "wolf man" in Greek, for causing a flood. However, Ovid does not mention Pandora's box as a source of evil. Lycaon's transformation into an animal revealed his savage nature, particularly evident in his mouth. The reaction of other Gods to Jupiter's punishment resembled that of followers in a senate.
Initially appearing sympathetic towards humanity, Jupiter claims that he intends to make the universe safe for lesser deities, nymphs, fauns, and lecherous individuals. However, subsequent narratives will show that young nymphs are actually most threatened by amorous Gods themselves. After ancient Roman faiths came more modern ideas such as cynicism and stoicism. One notable Stoic was Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius (See Picture 4). His political system was heavily influenced by the Stoic way of life which advocated for a human existence devoid of emotions. Emotions like envy and fear were considered to stem from false judgments made by humans' minds according to this philosophy.

Aurelius focused much on ethics involved in living a Stoic life which emphasizes wisdom, courage, justice, and moderation. He also promoted

continuous reflection and physical exercise to achieve harmony between mind and body. In Meditations, Book II, part 1 of his work, Aurelius expresses the idea that one should awaken each morning with the recognition that they will encounter thankless, violent, unreliable,
covetous,and uncharitable individuals.He attributes these negative traits to their ignorance of true goodness and sickness.However ,he remains unaffected by their actions or emotions towards him.The text highlights the Stoic way of life, which promotes unity in the universe and provides practical problem-solving techniques. This philosophy influenced Aurelius' political structuring of Rome like a self-fulfilling prophecy. However, Christianity ultimately had the most profound impact on the Roman Empire's political structure. The emergence of Christianity after Rome's decline brought significant changes in societal perspectives. Christian leaders, including Saint Augustine, emphasized the Bible as the sole legitimate source for important inquiries. As a result, Western civilization heavily relied on it as their primary source of knowledge for an extended period.

After Rome fell, Christians faced a dark period, with only a few finding salvation through faith. The text also explores how various rulers contributed to shaping and advancing Christian religious institutions. Picture 5 depicts Flavius Valerius Constantinus I playing a crucial role in fostering growth within the Christian church. He strongly supported the Orthodox Church and played a major part in its development as a Roman emperor.

Constantinus I legalized Christianity and established Constantinople as the foundation of the Greco-Christian Empire of Byzantium. He made Christianity the official religion in his province and allowed priests and bishops to practice it freely.Theodosios I, born in 347 AD, was a significant emperor who played a key role in promoting Christianity. In 380,

he made it the official faith and organized the 2nd Ecumenical Council to establish the Articles of Faith. Alongside various rulers of Byzantine, Theodosios I contributed to the growth and religious development of Christianity.

However, by the 11th and 12th centuries, geographical distances had caused Christianity to split into Eastern and Western branches. Despite this division, both branches remained part of the same faith but differed in cultural and historical backgrounds. As a result, various independent churches emerged that were connected through "canon" jurisprudence. These churches followed similar traditions, literature, ecclesiastical calendars, and imposts.

This gradual division occurred due to power struggles among regional rulers. Rome experienced succession battles and civil wars after 330 A.D., leading to its separation from Eastern Rome. The economic system also played a role in this divergence. Eastern Rome effectively utilized slaves and adopted a feudal-like political system that boosted their economy. On the other hand, Western Rome stuck with traditional norms which resulted in excessive taxes and ultimately led to the fall of their empire.

As for the capital of Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine), it became known as the Byzantine Empire. Unlike its western counterpart (Western Roman Empire), Byzantine survived due to its advanced urban civilization and fewer invasions it faced over timeByzantium, while retaining many laws and heritage from the larger Roman Empire, underwent updates to its legal code and transitioned from Latin to Greek as its official language. Notably, it constructed significant churches like Agia Sofia (Holy Wisdom). Furthermore, Byzantium made notable contributions to literature and art in Western Europe, serving as a model for efficient governance, trade norms, and regulations. Most notably, it established the Orthodox Church which greatly

influenced cultural, political, social, and religious life in the region for years to come.

The Orthodox Church has its origins traced back to Christ himself and is considered an Eastern Church due to its connection to Middle Eastern, Hellenic, and Slavic history. It has grown independently from Roman Catholicism and Protestantism since the divide between the East and West started in the 11th and 12th centuries. Despite this division, various independent churches within the Eastern Orthodox Church maintain communication through canon law.

In ancient Russian and Greek regions overseen by bishops assisted by priests and deacons served multiple communities under the umbrella of the Orthodox Church. Persecution was common due to a well-known concept of martyrdom among members of this church. The administrative belief in holding councils played a crucial role as they were seen as capable bodies governing laws and rules for people.The councils were established to address issues that required collaborative discernment of God's will, with knowledgeable individuals collaborating together. The first council took place in Jerusalem where Apostles convened to make an important decision while considering all parties involved. Different types of councils were established, including local ones and the well-known Apostolic Council.

The Christian Empire was founded during the 4th century when Emperor Constantine embraced Christianity. The Seven Ecumenical Councils had a significant impact on the religious landscape of the Roman Empire and held great importance within the Orthodox Church. The first council occurred in Nicea in 325 A.D., organized by Constantine the Great, while the last council also took place in Nicea in 787 A.D. These councils primarily focused on understanding Jesus' nature during his time on Earth.

The initial Council displayed strong

determination by defining Christ's nature as identical to that of God. The second Ecumenical Council happened in Constantinople in 381 A.D., exploring the concept of God as "Father and Son" and establishing belief in three aspects of God: Father, Son, and Spirit (the Trinity). In this council, disbelief from Macedonians was condemned.

The third Ecumenical Council convened in Ephesus in 431 A.D., denouncing Nestorians as heretics and affirming Jesus as both fully divine and fully human.Mary was recognized as "theotokos," or "God Bearer," for giving birth to both divine and human aspects of Jesus. This council concluded that both parts of the Creed were comprehensive. The fourth, fifth, and sixth councils debated whether Christ was solely God or solely human; all three councils proclaimed Him as both simultaneously. The Monophysites and the Monoethlites proposed that Jesus' humanity dissolved in the presence of His divinity, but the councils strongly criticized this theory and unanimously declared Jesus to be fully God and fully human.

The Qinisext Council, also known as the Trullo, was an intermediate council held between the Sixth and Seventh Ecumenical Councils in Constantinople in 692 A.D. Its main purpose was to complete administrative matters such as ratifying canons from the fifth and sixth councils.

The Seventh Ecumenical Council, also known as "The Sunday of Orthodoxy," occurred in Nicea in 787 A.D. The main topic discussed at this council was the use of images of God and Jesus.

Similar to any political government, the Roman Empire's cultural and social aspects were influenced by its citizens. Religion played a significant role in shaping the empire's political structure dating back to ancient times. These religious influences also contributed to social hierarchy

in Rome where elites enjoyed privileges and freedom for artistic and intellectual pursuits.Some wealthy Romans would import slaves from distant lands whom they believed were more talented than the average Roman slaves. The sophistication among Roman citizens led to the development of societal and political inventions in Rome. Specific laws were established for foreigners and slaves, while the elites enjoyed certain privileges. Slaves were excluded from government participation, whereas being a senator was a birthright for the elites. As a result, as the Romans became more sophisticated, their political system also advanced. The high level of sophistication in Rome contributed to the effectiveness of the public sphere in influencing the political realm in the Roman Empire. Contrary to popular belief that those times were ancient, the Romans actually lived ahead of their time with distinct lifestyles compared to people elsewhere. The Romans had confidence, ability, and pride which made them a culturally and socially strong nation. This strength was also evident in their political domain as their citizens maintained close connections with the government through democratic elections for senators. Therefore, it is evident that the public domain played a significant role in shaping Rome's political structure. In addition to providing an overview of various aspects of ancient Rome such as notable figures, clothing, art, and history; this text includes a list of works cited.

Picture 1

Julius Caesar, possibly one of Rome's most celebrated individuals

Illustration 1

The Roman toga represents the attire of a politician.

Picture 2

The gladiator's suit is a uniform for soldiers.

Picture 3

Augustus, the first Roman Emperor, is depicted in this image.

Illustration 2

Michelangelo's Ceiling of the Sistine Vault is showcased here.

Map

By

120 A.D., the Romans had conquered most of Europe.

Picture 4

Marcus Aurelius, known as a Stoic philosopher, is portrayed in this picture.

` Picture 5 ` Flavius valerius constantinus I represents Christianity in ancient Rome.
Work Cited:
Aurelius , Marcus.Meditations Book II , Part 1.London : Modern Library ,2003.
Ovid , Allen Mandelbaum .The Metamorphosesof Ovid.New York: Harvest Books,1995.
MacMullen,Ramsay.Romanization intheTimeofAugustus.Yale University Press,2000.
Veynw Paul.editor.A History of Private Life:I From HeathenRometoByzantium.Belknap Pressof HarvardUniversityPress,199228.
Wikipedia,"Culture of Ancient Rome,"Online,http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_culture(/a>(Accessed November28,2005).< br >

Portrait Gallery Online,http://www.roman-empire.net/republic/laterep-gallery-index.html(November21, 2005).
Reenactment Event at Corbridge, Online, http://www.cavazzi.com/roman-empire/diverse/reenactment-corbridge-2002.html (November 21, 2005).Roma: Map of the Empire, Online, http://intranet.dalton.org/groups/Rome/RMap.html (November 20, 2005). Wikipedia provides information on Caesar Augustus online at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Augustus (November 21, 2005), as well as information on Constantine I at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantine_I_%28emperor%29 (November 22).