Understanding Roman Beliefs about Pompeii
When Vesuvius erupted in AD 79, wiping out the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Romans did not fully comprehend the forces that led to such a catastrophe. This article explores the views and interpretations Romans had of the events at Pompeii, highlighting their understanding of natural phenomena and the role of the divine in explaining the disaster.
The Role of Natural Phenomena in Roman Society
Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions were not uncommon in the ancient world, but the scale and impact of the eruption of Vesuvius were unprecedented. For the Romans, natural disasters were often seen through the lens of their religious beliefs, which espoused the existence of a pantheon of gods and Goddesses who controlled various aspects of the natural world.
When an earthquake struck in 62 AD, it was a significant event, but it was not until ten years later that the full scale of the disaster struck. Historians and archaeologists have uncovered the reasons behind the lack of preparedness and understanding among the Romans during this time. The earthquake of 62 AD was seen as a sign of the gods' displeasure, and while there were efforts to rebuild and fortify the city, it seems that the true extent of the danger posed by Vesuvius was not fully grasped.
The Divine Explanation for Natural Disasters
In the context of Roman society, natural disasters like volcanic eruptions were often seen as divine punishments. The eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD deepened the Roman conviction that the actions of the gods played a significant role in human lives. Titus, the Roman Emperor at the time, was particularly conscious of the need to prove his favor with the gods through his actions.
The Opening Games at the Colosseum
One of the key events that addressed Titus's anxiety and demonstrated divine favor was the opening games at the Colosseum. Titus had reason to be concerned, as his reign was marked by the outbreak of diseases and the lingering effects of the earthquake of 62 AD. The successful opening of the Colosseum, with its elaborate displays and public spectacles, was designed to reassert his power and demonstrate divine support for his rule.
Witness Accounts and Roman Knowledge
Despite the Roman understanding of natural phenomena being limited, there were witnesses who documented what they saw. These accounts provide insight into the immediate aftermath of the eruption and how the Romans began to piece together what had happened. The writings of ancient authors such as Pliny the Younger offer a detailed and emotional account of the events, with Pliny himself surviving the initial stages of the eruption. His letter to Tacitus is one of the most poignant and informative documents of the disaster, detailing the sequence of events and describing the horror of seeing the city of Pompeii being engulfed by ash and pumice.
Conclusion
The destruction of Pompeii was a momentous event in Roman history, and the interpretation of these events by the Romans reflects a deep-seated belief in the divine. Natural disasters were seen as divine punishments, and the successful opening of the Colosseum served as a reminder of Roman resilience and divine favor. Through the writings of witnesses, we gain a clearer understanding of the devastating impact of the eruption on the people of Pompeii and the broader implications for Roman society.