Module 6 Introduction and Outcomes

Module 6: The Roman Kingdom, Republic, and Empire

Roman funerary paintingAncient Rome was characterized by three distinct periods—the Roman Kingdom (from the eight to the sixth century B.C.E.), the Roman Republic (from the sixth to the first century B.C.E.), and the Roman Empire (from the first century B.C.E. to the fifth century A.D. for the Western Roman Empire and to the fifteenth century in the Eastern Roman Empire). How Rome evolved from a monarchy to an oligarchic republic and then to an autocratic empire will be the subject of this unit. During these three phases, innovative ideas about government, law, art, philosophy, and architecture became prominent facets of Roman society—and remain relevant in modern times. However, many of these new ideas emerged during periods of political instability and continuous warfare. In this unit, we will study the creation of republican Rome and the rise of the Roman Empire, while also paying special attention to the violent and volatile nature of this ancient polity. We will also examine the major features of Roman society and culture.

 

Time Advisory

This unit will take you 18 hours to complete.

  • Section 6.1 The Roman Kingdom and the Rise of the Roman Republic: 5 hours

  • Section 6.2 Roman Culture and Society: 6 hours

  • Section 6.3 The Roman Empire: 5 hours

  • Section 6.4 Emergence of Christianity: 1.5 hours
  • Section 6.5 Module 6 Quiz: 0.5 hours

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will be able to:

  • Identify causes, main events, and consequences of Roman expansion in the Mediterranean.
  • Identify the origins of the Roman Republic and evaluate the impact of political and economic expansion on Roman society.
  • Assess the political, social, and economic factors that led to the fall of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire.
  • Compare the differing modern views on and interpretations of vital concepts, such as the nature of Roman democracy and imperialism.
  • Identify the reasons for Rome's success in government both externally and internally as it integrated a diverse world into a stable and pragmatic empire.
  • Assess the political, social, and cultural legacies of Roman civilization.
  • Analyze the religious crisis posed by Christianity and the stages by which the Empire adjusted the new revolutionary religion into a new cultural amalgam.