Children Flashcards
What is the toga virilis?
A plain white toga worn by boys upon reaching adulthood
At what age did a boy come of age in ancient Rome?
Around fifteen years old
What did a boy dedicate to the household gods upon coming of age?
His boyhood toga (toga praetexta) and the bulla
What is the toga praetexta
Toga which had a purple border and was worn during childhood
What was the purpose of the bulla?
To protect boys until they reached adulthood
When might a child first receive a bulla?
Around the dies lustricus (approximately 9 days after birth)
What materials could a bulla be made from?
Gold for rich children and leather or less precious materials for poor children
What symbolized the safe passing into adulthood for a boy?
The removal of the bulla during a rite of passage
What was the equivalent of the bulla for girls?
The lunula
To whom was the lunula dedicated?
The goddess Venus
What was the significance of the toga praetexta in relation to youth?
It was symbolic of childhood
What happened to the bulla if a child died prematurely?
It was not found buried with them
This suggests that the bulla would be passed on to the next child.
What was done after the sacrifice at the temple of Jupiter on the Capitoline Hill?
The rest of the day was devoted to celebrations and a banquet
