Roman Festivals - Saturnalia

Question 1

What was the saturnalia?

Answer 1

In honour of Saturn (god of sowing and seed) for end of winter sowing, beginning of winter solistice (light, rebirth, new future), saturn ruled during golden age so hope to return to golden age - all levels of society took part. 17th-23rd december, but during Augustus reign it was shortened 3 days and during claudius reign it was lengthened 5 days

Question 2

Who were the officials?

Answer 2

temple of saturn in roman forum and priests of that temple provided religious officials. religious officials were elected each year. feast fell to senate and state money used

Question 3

Describe the programme

Answer 3

it was poorly documented so we know what happened but not when. first was a sacrifice and all business was suspended and period declared a national holiday

Question 4

Describe the sacrifice

Answer 4

preist took part with head covered (like greek)

Question 5

Describe the public feast

Answer 5

state paid for feast on streets of rome, could have lasted several days, included statue of saturn

Question 6

Describe the private feasting

Answer 6

equality, slaves and masters equal and all would wear party dresses (no togas) and small felt cap with pills (freedom) and there would be gift giving