Analysis Of The Colosseum

Augustus, the first emperor of Rome once stated, “I found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble.” Rome may have continued to be like any other city throughout the Roman Empire without the influence of Augustus, but now it is prominently known as a goldmine for historical research. One of the most distinguished architectures of this great empire is the Colosseum, which today is recognized as being one of the world’s largest amphitheaters ever constructed. The region of origin of this massive stone edifice rested in Ancient Rome and currently resides in the Province of Rome in Italy. Due to its commission in A.D. 70-72 by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty and its formal opening in A.D. 80 by Vespian’s son, Titus, it is also
As of less than ten years ago this great triumphal monument has been voted as one of the New Seven Wonder of the World, which explains why the analysis of this structure is of great significance. Throughout my paper I will focus on issues including gladiatorial battles that were once fought in the Colosseum, I will provide my own in-depth analysis of the hypogeum, and will elaborate on the restoration of this notable architectural structure, which will shed light on the complex history and ethical issues related to the Colosseum. I will argue that the financial reconstruction and renovation are necessary actions with respect to the monument’s preservation, and must be considered a main priority, despite the recent economic concerns throughout the country of
Besides the performers and the vendors on the main level the laborers in the hypogeum, which was the most dangerous place to work, formed a greater number of the Colosseum’s workforce. The vast majority of these workers were slaves, however, they were not the only people to work beneath the Colosseum’s main battleground. Due to the large amount of space these chambers could house large amounts of animals, stage props and laborers who would work down there. Commoners also held positions such as animal keepers, trainers and other stagehands. Most of these workers performed dangerous tasks such as releasing the wild beasts from their cages, and using burning torches to frighten and direct the animals through the variety of passages that branch out beneath the stadium. These animal pens housed a number of lions, tigers, bears, and wolves which were required for the contests and shows of the day. During the Roman Empire the hypogeum’s atmosphere could have been described as being repulsive and and quite terrifying to those who had to work below during the events. The amplified sounds of applause and chants of the audience, roars of wild beasts, and shrieks of agony from the wounded gladiators fighting echoed throughout the tunnels of the hypogeum. Considering the fact that the hypogeum lied as the basement of the