Imagine stepping into ancient Rome, not through the grand tales of emperors and gladiators, but through the daily life of a young girl named Domitia. At just five years old, Domitia resides in the grand atrium of her father’s vast house, capturing her world through drawings. Her family is a tapestry of Roman tradition, with her older brother, Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus, bearing a name that reflects their lineage. In contrast, Domitia and her sisters share the same name, a common practice that often led to confusion in Roman society.
Domitia’s family is a reflection of Roman customs, where the male lineage is meticulously recorded, while the female line remains less distinct. Domitia III, as she is known, is the youngest of three sisters. Her mother passed away three years ago during childbirth, leaving behind a household bustling with activity. Each morning, their father receives clients and friends, a ritual that young Lucius Popidius Secundus, a prospective suitor for Domitia II, participates in, hoping to win favor with her father.
While the men of the household engage in public life, the women, including Domitia and her sisters, have their own roles. Roman women, unlike their Greek counterparts, have the freedom to move about the city. They visit baths, often in the morning to avoid men, and enjoy the public spaces like the Portico of Livia. However, their presence is absent in places of power such as the Forum or the Senate House.
As the men leave for court, the house quiets down, and the women turn to their tasks. The loom in the atrium is a focal point, where the girls assist in spinning wool for their father’s new toga. This domestic work is a celebrated aspect of Roman womanhood, often inscribed on gravestones. Yet, the girls also find time for leisure, playing with dolls that mimic their sister’s betrothal attire.
When the girls venture out, they do so in style, carried in litters by slaves, with a chaperone in tow. Their destination is the Portico of Livia, a serene garden built by the wife of Emperor Augustus. Here, Domitia III indulges her artistic side, while Domitia II explores the graffiti, imagining the gladiatorial battles she will never witness up close.
As the day winds down, the girls return home to find a tense atmosphere. A broken dish has caused a stir among the slaves, who await their master’s return with trepidation. Roman discipline is harsh, and the threat of punishment looms large. However, it is not their father who arrives first, but their eldest sister, a 15-year-old mother, visiting for dinner.
With dinner concluded, the family bids farewell to their sister, who is escorted home. The slaves remain in the atrium, bracing for their master’s return and the potential consequences of the day’s mishap. Meanwhile, the young Domitias retire for the night, their day a blend of tradition, duty, and the simple joys of childhood in ancient Rome.
Imagine you are Domitia III. Write a journal entry describing your day from morning until night. Include details about your family, the tasks you perform, and your feelings about the events that happen. This will help you understand the daily life of a young girl in ancient Rome.
Draw a floor plan of Domitia’s house, including the atrium, the loom area, and other important rooms. Label each part and write a short description of what happens in each area. This activity will help you visualize the living spaces in ancient Roman homes.
With a group of classmates, role-play a typical day in Domitia’s household. Assign roles such as Domitia, her sisters, their father, and the slaves. Act out scenes like the morning rituals, working at the loom, and visiting the Portico of Livia. This will give you a hands-on experience of Roman social structure and daily routines.
Create your own piece of Roman-inspired art or graffiti. Use materials like paper, markers, and crayons to draw scenes from Domitia’s life or write messages as the Romans did. Share your artwork with the class and explain its significance. This will help you appreciate Roman culture and artistic expression.
Investigate the types of clothing worn by Roman men, women, and children. Create a poster or digital presentation showing different garments, such as togas and stolas, and explain their importance. Include illustrations or pictures. This activity will deepen your understanding of Roman fashion and its role in society.
Ancient – Very old or from a long time ago, especially before the end of the Roman Empire. – The ancient pyramids of Egypt were built thousands of years ago.
Rome – The capital city of Italy, which was once the center of a powerful ancient civilization. – In ancient times, Rome was known for its grand buildings and strong army.
Domitia – A name that could refer to a woman from ancient Rome, often associated with noble families. – Domitia was known for her wisdom and kindness in Roman society.
Sisters – Girls or women who have the same parents or who are very close like family. – The sisters in the story always supported each other through difficult times.
Women – Adult female humans, who have played important roles throughout history. – Women in ancient Greece were often responsible for managing the household.
Society – A group of people living together in a community with shared laws and traditions. – In Roman society, people gathered in the forum to discuss important matters.
Family – A group of people related by blood or marriage, often living together. – The family gathered around the table to share stories from their ancestors.
Customs – Traditional practices or usual ways of doing things in a particular culture. – One of the customs in ancient China was to celebrate the New Year with fireworks.
Life – The existence of an individual human or animal, often filled with experiences and events. – Life in the medieval castle was very different from life today.
Tradition – Beliefs or practices passed down from generation to generation. – It is a tradition in many cultures to celebrate the harvest with a festival.
