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O Divine Titus! A Roman Triumph |
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by zihengxu / 09.05.2004 |
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Besides its festive role, the Roman Triumph was really meant to justify the war and purify its soldiers. Roman economy was very much based on the spoils of war; hence winning wars was essential to the expansion of the empire. However, the Roman theory of non-aggression states that unless there was absolute need, a war should be avoided. By showing the loots and enemy generals to the people, the general declared that he had done good to the empire by eliminating possible threats while providing a source of treasures and slaves to the people.
With same reasoning, Domitian built the Arch of Titus not only to remember Titus, but also to show the rewards of winning a war. He had been waging wars abroad; in particular he moved to expand the empire eastward and met with heavy resistance. By using the Jews as an example, Domitian hoped the to send a message to the resisting countries: join the civilization, or prepare to die! The best situation, of course, would be when the enemies falter with fear and submit to Roman rule. If the enemies still wish to fight, the reminder of the Triumph of Titus will definitely motivate more Romans to volunteer for war. Look at what war could bring to the Empire! Fame, wealth, women, slaves, secret treasures of the east...Join the army and you can take a share! For the Empire! For Rome!
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