Cities of the Ancient World Season 1 Episode 19 The Lives of the Poor in Rome

In this episode of Cities of the Ancient World, titled "The Lives of the Poor in Rome," viewers are taken on a journey through the bustling city of ancient Rome to explore the daily struggles of the lower classes and impoverished citizens. Through archaeological discoveries, expert interviews, and historical reconstructions, this episode sheds light on the harsh realities faced by those who lived in the shadow of Rome's opulence.

The episode begins by setting the scene of ancient Rome, a city of more than a million people where the gulf between rich and poor was immense. Viewers are shown the extravagant monuments and elaborate architecture that symbolized the wealth and power of Rome's elite, before delving into the gritty reality of life for those who lived in the city's squalid slums.

Using archaeological evidence, the episode traces the development of Rome's poor neighborhoods, known as insulae, which were congested, unsafe, and prone to collapse. This was especially true for the multistory apartment buildings, or "insulae," that housed the poorest of the poor. Despite these abysmal living conditions, the insulae were central to the lives of the city's lower classes, providing not only shelter but also access to water, food, and work.

Viewers are introduced to the daily routines of Rome's poor, such as visiting the street markets, which were noisy, chaotic, and often dangerous. The episode shows how the poor relied on these markets to buy basic necessities such as bread, oil, and wine, and how vendors exploited their desperation by charging exorbitant prices. Viewers are also shown the importance of begging in ancient Rome, as it was a viable source of income for many poor citizens.

As the episode progresses, viewers are taken deeper into the lives of the poor, through interviews with scholars and experts who discuss topics such as the role of religion in the lives of the lower classes, the prevalence of crime and violence in insulae, and the impact of disease and illness on everyday life. The episode explores how the poor of Rome had limited access to healthcare and sanitation, leading to the spread of deadly diseases such as malaria, typhoid fever, and tuberculosis.

Despite these challenges, the lives of the poor in Rome were not without moments of joy and celebration. The episode highlights the importance of festivals and public spectacles, which were accessible to people of all social classes. The Saturnalia festival, for example, was a time when the rules of society were temporarily overturned, and the poor were allowed to indulge in feasting, gambling, and revelry.

Throughout the episode, viewers are presented with a nuanced and multi-faceted picture of life for the poor in ancient Rome. The show avoids simplistic stereotypes and highlights the resilience, ingenuity, and creativity of those who lived in the shadow of Rome's grandeur. By the end of the episode, viewers will have gained a deeper appreciation for the complexities of ancient Roman society and the struggles faced by those who lived on its margins.

"The Lives of the Poor in Rome" is a compelling and thought-provoking episode that provides an illuminating glimpse into the lives of the lower classes in one of history's most iconic cities. Its engaging mix of archaeology, history, and expert commentary makes it a must-watch for anyone with an interest in ancient Rome or the social dynamics of urban life.