Final answer:
Roman comedy is the second literary genre that is considered one of Rome's most distinctive literary legacies, adapted from Greek traditions by playwrights like Plautus and Terence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The second literary genre that literary critics recognize as one of Rome's most distinctive literary legacies is Roman comedy. This genre was adapted from the Greek theatrical traditions through the works of playwrights such as Plautus and Terence. These authors were known for the fabula palliata, Roman comedies that were tailored to suit Roman tastes, modifying elements of the Greek originals. This practice emerged because Romans, despite their pride in their culture, were significantly influenced by Greek literature and adopted various elements, including comedy, but altered them to reflect Roman sensibilities.