A Day in the Life of a Roman Teenager: Unveiling Ancient Customs

Imagine stepping back in time to 73 A.D. and experiencing life as a teenager in ancient Rome. Forget modern gadgets and social media; this was a world of arranged marriages, coming-of-age rituals, and communal bathing. Let's delve into the fascinating details of a typical Roman teenager's day.

The World of Lucius Popidius Secundus

Our journey begins with Lucius Popidius Secundus, a 17-year-old living in Rome. Though not from a wealthy family, Lucius resides in the Subura, a bustling, albeit poorer, neighborhood close to the city's heart. Life in the Subura came with its challenges. Overcrowding was rampant, and the risk of fire was a constant threat, leaving the air thick with the smell of ash and smoke.

Family and Tradition

Lucius' day starts at dawn with important family duties. His 15-year-old brother is celebrating his coming of age, a significant milestone considering the high child mortality rate in ancient Rome. The ceremony involves the young man donning his new toga and placing his bulla, a protective amulet, at the household shrine, offering a prayer of gratitude for surviving to adulthood.

Education and Future Prospects

At 17, Lucius is nearing the end of his education. He's learned the art of public speaking, reading, and writing in both Latin and Greek. His father has also imparted practical skills such as running, swimming, and fighting. Lucius faces a potential career path as a military tribune, commanding soldiers on the Empire's fringes. However, in some aspects, he remains a child, with his father managing business affairs until he turns 25 and arranging his marriage to a much younger girl.

A Day in the City

Leaving home with his family, Lucius navigates the bustling streets of Rome. Shops are open, and traders hawk their wares. While large wagons are restricted during certain hours, the streets remain crowded with people going about their daily lives. Fathers and uncles escort their children to the Forum Augustus, showcasing statues of Rome's legendary warriors like Aeneas and Romulus, and great generals of the Republic. These visits serve as opportunities to recount tales of Rome's glory and impart lessons on virtuous living.

The Significance of History

The Romans possessed a profound sense of history, viewing their empire as eternal. Warfare was an integral part of their existence, with ongoing campaigns in various regions, including northern England, Romania, and the border between Syria and Iraq.

The Baths of Agrippa

As the day progresses, Lucius and his family make their way to the Baths of Agrippa. Family members separate, with clients and freedmen remaining outside while Lucius and his peers enter the baths. The baths transition from dimly lit, steamy rooms to brighter spaces thanks to Roman advancements in window glass technology. Bathers move from the cold room to the tepid room and finally to the very hot room. After more than an hour, they emerge massaged, oiled, and cleansed using a strigil to remove dirt.

Dinner and Evening

After seven hours, the men return home for a celebratory dinner. The meal is an intimate gathering with nine people reclining around a low table. Slaves attend to their needs, providing food and wine as requested. As night falls, the sounds of wagons fill the air. Clients and freedmen enjoy a modest meal before heading to the tepid baths and returning to their apartments. Back at Lucius' house, the drinking continues late into the night, with slaves on standby to assist those who've had too much.

An Uncertain Future

Looking ahead, Lucius' future remains uncertain. In 20 years, Emperor Vespasian's son, Domitian, will rule with terror. Will Lucius survive this tumultuous period? Only time will tell.

This glimpse into the life of a Roman teenager reveals a world of tradition, duty, and the ever-present realities of ancient Roman society. It highlights the importance of family, education, and the ever-present influence of Rome's rich history.