vitzromanslaves

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 * Slaves were very important to the Romans. Without slaves, the wealthy of Rome would not have been able to lead the lifestyles that they wanted to. A logical assumption is that slaves lead poor lives simply because they were slaves. In fact, a good master looked after a good slave as an equally good replacement might be hard to acquire – or expensive. A good cook was highly prized as entertaining was very important to Rome ’s elite and rich families tried to outdo each other when banquets were held – hence the importance of owning a good cook. Those slaves who worked down mines or had no trade/skill were almost certainly less well looked after as they were easier and cheaper to replace.



A slave’s day began at daybreak. If his master lived in a cold climate, the first job of the day for a day would be to fire up the hypocaust. When his master awoke, a slave would be expected to assist dressing him. When the day properly began, a whole group of slaves started set tasks, such as walking children to school, cleaning a villa, washing clothes, tidying a garden etc. A group of slaves would work in a kitchen preparing the day’s meals. When a rich man and his family bathed at home, slaves would help out by drying them once they had finished and dressing them. When a master moved around, slaves would carry him in a litter. When a master entertained, slaves would ensure a constant supply of food and drink. If guests had to return home and it was dark, a slave or slaves would walk ahead of them with a lighted torch. In the country, Roman farm, slaves would have to do all the hard and back-breaking work needed in running a farm. Unfortunate Roman Slaves were used down mines to mine silver, lead, tin and gold for their masters - they might not get to see sunlight for months at a time. Slaves are still illegally being used today. **