Popular and Imperial Response to Earthquakes in the Roman Empire
Christopher M. Higgins
Ohio University: Master of Arts, June (2009)
Abstract
This thesis examines popular and imperial response to earthquakes in the Roman Empire period from the reign of Augustus through the reign of Justinian. It examines religious and scientific attitudes towards earthquakes throughout the classical period and whether these attitudes affected the disaster relief offered by Roman emperors. By surveying popular and imperial reactions throughout the time period this thesis shows that Roman subjects reacted in nearly identical manners regardless of the official religion of the Empire. The emperors followed a precedent set by Augustus who was providing typical voluntary euergetism. Their responses showcased imperial philanthropy while symbolizing the power and presence of the Roman state even in far off provinces. The paper also examines archaeological evidence from Sardis and Pompeii each of whose unique archaeological circumstances allows for an illustration of methods of reconstruction following earthquakes of massive and moderate size.
This thesis will survey ancient responses to earthquakes and examine the reasons for imperial relief. From popular religious and scientific attitudes towards earthquakes to imperial political motives for providing assistance for earthquake victims, this elemental force of nature compelled reaction on many fronts. Ordinary people caught in an earthquake responded out of necessity, fear and human nature. Roman Emperors often responded to earthquakes philanthropically to achieve politically practical results.
Christopher M. Higgins
Ohio University: Master of Arts, June (2009)
Abstract
This thesis examines popular and imperial response to earthquakes in the Roman Empire period from the reign of Augustus through the reign of Justinian. It examines religious and scientific attitudes towards earthquakes throughout the classical period and whether these attitudes affected the disaster relief offered by Roman emperors. By surveying popular and imperial reactions throughout the time period this thesis shows that Roman subjects reacted in nearly identical manners regardless of the official religion of the Empire. The emperors followed a precedent set by Augustus who was providing typical voluntary euergetism. Their responses showcased imperial philanthropy while symbolizing the power and presence of the Roman state even in far off provinces. The paper also examines archaeological evidence from Sardis and Pompeii each of whose unique archaeological circumstances allows for an illustration of methods of reconstruction following earthquakes of massive and moderate size.
This thesis will survey ancient responses to earthquakes and examine the reasons for imperial relief. From popular religious and scientific attitudes towards earthquakes to imperial political motives for providing assistance for earthquake victims, this elemental force of nature compelled reaction on many fronts. Ordinary people caught in an earthquake responded out of necessity, fear and human nature. Roman Emperors often responded to earthquakes philanthropically to achieve politically practical results.
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