Abstract This paper describes and discusses the Colosseum in Rome. More specifically, the paper provides a history and a physical description of the Colosseum as well as a discussion of how the ancient Romans used the structure and an explanation of the source of its name and its usage today. The paper includes a summary of the research in the conclusion.
Outline:
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper "Superlatives quickly fail when describing the Colosseum. The encyclopedic entry for the Colosseum (2004) reports that it is a four-storied oval measuring 617 feet (188 meters) by 512 feet (156 meters), much of which is remains standing today; the building featured a tier on tier design comprised of marble seats that could accommodate about 45,000 spectators; in addition, the Colosseum encloses an arena measuring 250 feet (76 meters) by 151 feet (46 meters) and gladiatorial combats were held there until AD 404 (The Colosseum 357). The Temple of Venus and Rome faced the Colosseum (Robathan 84). According to this author (1950), "Recent investigation reveals that there was no colonnade on the side facing the Colosseum. Beneath the platform at that end where the temple stood high above the level of the Colosseum valley a series of rooms has been found."
Abstract This paper presents a discussion of the Colosseum of Rome and why it was built. It includes a description of its size and architectural details. The paper discusses the monument's artistic style, imagery and its purpose that is revealed by its size.
From the Paper "The Colosseum is one of the greatest architectural monuments that is still standing. Over time, it served different purposes, some grand and some mundane. Its low point was probably reached when it was used as quarry of construction materials to build new architecture. Yet the greatness of the Colosseum has withstood the test of time. At its high point, it was the center of Rome, the center of the public's attention and a site where people engaged in the cultural practice of belonging. The imagery and architecture of..."
Abstract This paper examines the book, "A Scandalous History of the Roman Emperors" by Anthony Blond, who seems to have written a history of Rome for the current tabloid age. The paper illustrates the book as both a history of the Emperors and a characterization of the age. The paper describes the picture created by the author of the Roman era, and the stories he tells of the emperors, from Julius Caesar to Nero. This is followed by a discussion of Rome as a city and an empire. The paper claims that although the author of the book states that there is nothing original in his book, the paper shows that the approach he takes to the material is original.
From the Paper "One monument that Blond gives special attention, as did the Romans, is the Colosseum, notable for the money, effort, materials, and time spent on construction. This space was central in Rome, providing an arena for the Games and so far watching the slaughter of men and beasts. The base of its pillars consist of blocks of seventy cubic feet of stone, each weighing five tons. Some 50,000 wagonloads of tavertine were brought to the site."
Abstract This paper examines the irony and foreshadowing evident in the short story "Roman Fever" written by Edith Wharton. The paper discusses how Wharton creates a thrilling short story that takes place in just a few hours on a terrace. It is through the setting of the story and the conversation between Mrs. Ansley and Mrs. Slade that Wharton employs irony and foreshadowing to add tension and drama.
From the Paper "Wharton uses the setting of this story to set the mood. The Colosseum is clearly a place that holds tender memories for both of the women. We are introduced to feelings of young love and night skies filled with the full moon. These images work to convey a romantic mood as the two companions reflect on their pasts. Wharton also employs irony in the setting as well. For instance, the women are sitting on a "lofty terrace of the Roman restaurant," which implies a lovely scene. The view also includes a "serenity which might have been borrowed from the spring effulgence of the Roman skies" (Wharton 1025). In addition, the ladies are reminiscing about their younger days. The setting of the story indicates that we are about to read about love and to make that matter more interesting, it is a love from years past."
