Some features of Roman society seem quite strange today. Many represent nothing more than colorful differences in customs, but others carry definite moral implications. Depictions of slavery, the gladiatorial games, and violence and assassination in political life will not shock anyone vaguely familiar with Roman history, but a parent or teacher may wish to further explore some of the issues involved.

Such exploration could serve to stimulate further reflection about the role of force and violence in all societies, including our own, and to counteract the popular view of ancient Rome as an incredibly cruel and violent place. It is particularly important that students see Roman society from a balanced, historical perspective because the values of contemporary society reflect Roman values. Indeed, so many contemporary Western political and social ideals derive from those of Rome that in the recent past every educated person studied classical history...