Roman Slavery Flashcards
What are two of the most common ways to become enslaved?
The most common ways to become enslaved were through capture in war and birth to enslaved parents.
What was the relation between war and enslavement?
War was a primary source of enslaved individuals, as prisoners of war were often enslaved. The Roman Empire frequently acquired slaves from military conquests.
Why were “homebred slaves” preferred to slaves captured in war?
“Homebred slaves” were preferred because they were seen as more reliable and loyal. They were raised in a domestic environment and were less likely to rebel compared to slaves captured in war, who might have been more resistant.
What was the relationship between unwanted infants, who were “exposed,” or left to the elements to die, and enslavement?
Unwanted infants who were exposed and left to die were often collected and enslaved if they survived. This practice was a way to manage unwanted births and integrate survivors into the slave system.
About how much did a slave typically cost (although price could vary based on age, sex, and skills)?
A typical slave cost around 500 to 2,000 denarii, though prices could vary significantly based on age, sex, skills, and other factors.
How does Lenski define “slavery”?
Lenski defines “slavery” as a condition of domination and natal alienation where enslaved individuals are deprived of personal autonomy and are regarded as property rather than persons.
In what ways could the productive (labor) value of slaves be “overlooked” in favor of spectacles of destruction?
The productive value of slaves could be overlooked when their primary use was for public spectacles, such as gladiatorial games or executions, where their labor value was secondary to their role in entertainment and punishment.
What work were the majority of Roman slaves engaged in?
The majority of Roman slaves were engaged in agricultural labor, domestic service, and manual work in various trades and crafts.
What percentage(s) of the total Roman population was enslaved?
It is estimated that between 25% and 40% of the total Roman population were enslaved at different times in the Empire.
What sorts of “trade commodities” did slaves produce?
Slaves produced various trade commodities including agricultural products (like grains and olives), textiles, pottery, and other goods essential for local and international trade.
What occupations did slaves perform in the households of elite owners/enslavers?
In elite households, slaves performed a range of occupations including household management, cooking, cleaning, personal service, and tutoring.
What roles did slaves play in “knowledge production” industries?
Slaves in knowledge production roles included scribes, teachers, and researchers, contributing to administrative, educational, and literary activities.
In what ways did bodies, sex, and sex workers play roles in the system of Roman slavery?
Enslaved bodies were subjected to sexual exploitation, with sex workers often being enslaved individuals forced into prostitution. Sexual abuse was a common aspect of the control and domination over enslaved people.
How were enslavement and sexual assault related?
Enslavement and sexual assault were closely related as enslaved individuals, particularly women, were often subjected to sexual exploitation and abuse by their masters, reflecting the broader power dynamics and control inherent in slavery.
What was the most common “exit” from slavery?
The most common exit from slavery was death, whether through natural causes or by the individual’s own choice.
