The Colosseum in Rome
Speaker: Dr. Heather Graham
The Flavian Amphitheater
The Flavian Amphitheater, more commonly known as the Colosseum, is one of the most imposing surviving structures of the ancient Roman world. Rising 159 feet and seating 50,000 spectators, the Colosseum is a triumph of Roman engineering. In this video, we explore this ancient treasure, from its construction and innovative design to the spectacular public entertainments it hosted. We examine why it was built and its extensive decorative program. Like a modern-day sports arena, the Colosseum was where Roman people came together to eat, drink, watch, and be seen.
Colosseum, Rome. Photo © Lauren Kilroy-Ewbank
Video chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Flavian Amphitheater 00:30 A Shadow of Its Former Glory 00:41 An Oval-Shaped Theater for All 01:07 Seats 01:22 What Was On View? 01:48 Why the Flavian Amphitheater? 02:11 Nero’s Golden House and the Colossus of Rome 03:21 Reclaiming Roman Public Space 03:39 Concrete and Groin Vaults 04:04 Dressing the Building 04:28 Tiers of Columns: Doric, Ionic, Corinthian 06:03 A Gathering Place for the People
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