Question

You are a Roman citizen who was caught in an avalanche and frozen during the Pax Romana. You were found 250 years later during Justinian’s reign & defrosted in the city of Constantinople. You awoke to find yourself in a new city that you have never seen before. Some things are different, some are familiar. Write a paragraph journal entry from the perspective of a frozen Roman that compares your home in Rome with this new city of Constantinople. (Think about gov’t, location, entertainment, religion, language) Include at least 4 facts in your journal entry

Answer 1

A Roman citizen compares their home in Rome with the new city of Constantinople in terms of government, location, entertainment, religion, and language.

Step-by-step explanation:

Dear Journal,

Today I woke up to find myself in the city of Constantinople, a place I had never seen before. Everything seems both different and familiar at the same time. Let me compare my home in Rome with this new city:

1. Government: In Rome, we had an emperor who ruled over us and made all the important decisions. Here in Constantinople, it seems that the government is more bureaucratic and centralized, with the emperor having more control and power.
2. Location: Rome was located in Italy and was surrounded by lush countryside. Constantinople, on the other hand, is situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, making it a major trading hub.
3. Entertainment: In Rome, we had grand amphitheaters where gladiatorial games and chariot races took place. Here in Constantinople, I have heard of the Hippodrome, a similar entertainment venue where chariot races are held.
4. Religion: In Rome, we worshiped a pantheon of gods and goddesses. However, during the time I was frozen, Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire. In Constantinople, Christianity seems to be widespread and there are many beautiful churches and works of art funded by the emperor.
5. Language: In Rome, Latin was the dominant language spoken by the people. In Constantinople, Greek seems to be the main language of communication, which is different but not entirely unfamiliar to me.

As I explore this new city, I am fascinated by the differences and similarities to my home in Rome. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire and the diverse cultures that have shaped it over the centuries.