In the Iliad, Hector is a Trojan prince who leads his people in their war against the Greeks. Book 6 describes his character and reason for fighting. Hector is the Trojans’ pillar, a humble man who accepts his fate but fights so he can earn fame while securing the Trojans’ future. All the Trojans look... Continue Reading →
The Ideals and Roles of Late Antique Monasticism
Late antique monks and nuns believed their true utopia would come later in heaven, while on Earth they had to strive for perfection through virtue. One of the things this involved was being free of material possessions that could distract them so they could imitate Christ. Monks were often wealthy people who sold their possessions... Continue Reading →
Reflection on the “Diet, Food and Consumption in the Greek and Roman Worlds” UTM talk (Delivered Sept 22, 2022)
The first lecture by John Wilkins was on food in Greco-Roman Culture. Wilkins started out by talking about anthropological situations of food and culture in antiquity. The ancient Greco-Romans believed that nature was controlled by powerful forces, normally gods. I think this is a good point: many ancient cultures including the Greeks knew the world... Continue Reading →
Analysis of The Tomb of Fastia Velsi from Chiusi
Fastia Velsi’s urn was part of a tomb in the Colle Lucioli near Chiusi. The lid of Fastia Velsi’s inscribed travertine urn depicts her wearing a tunic and elaborate jewelry, reclining on two pillows as if in a banquet. The front of the container depicts a youthful figure with wings and fishtail legs. It possibly... Continue Reading →