“Rome”: Topics from CSTS 121 to HBO Max

I began watching the first season of Rome, which is streaming on HBO Max. In this historical drama, Lucius Vorenus (played by Kevin McKidd) and Titus Pollo (played by Ray Stevenson) navigate an ever changing ancient Rome while fighting in the Roman army. Rome takes place during the downfall of the Roman republic and the uprising of the Roman empire. In the first episode, Caesar and Pompey are co-consuls of Rome and dear friends to one another. However, by the end of the episode, Caesar and Pompey are enemies. As Caesar returns from Gaul, a war between himself and Pompey becomes frighteningly realistic. 

I enjoyed watching Rome for many reasons. The main reason is because the tv show helps me to remember Roman historical figures and their contributions to Roman society. Sometimes, it is difficult to retain all the different Romans and their connections to one another through only readings. Although they are actors, the tv show also helps by connecting the names to faces. Additionally, I loved the set and costume design. To my knowledge, the costumes were accurate and reflective of the time period. The sets were highly detailed and engaging to the audience. It was especially fascinating to see aspects of Roman life in the show that I learned in class. In week six, we discussed Roman friendship. In the first episode, Pompey and Caesar both use the word “friend” to describe each other. However, their definition of “friend” is not the same definition used in modern practice. Pompey and Caesar call each other “friend” as a form of loyalty and allyship. However, once that loyalty is broken, so is their friendship. In the following episodes, Pompey and Caesar are not friends anymore. 

I did not enjoy watching the high degree of violence portrayed in the show. However, I do understand there was a purpose behind the depiction of all the bloodshed. Romans were not afraid to use violence against an enemy or as a punishment for citizens who have broken the law. In one scene, Vorenus uses torture to obtain information from people in Gaul. He uses the method of nailing people to a cross until they disclose useful information. I was not prepared for the vivid imagery of violent actions.