Ab urbe condita

Definition

The term 'ab urbe condita' translates to 'from the founding of the city' and refers specifically to the traditional date of the founding of Rome in 753 BCE. This expression serves as a chronological reference point in ancient Roman history, marking events in relation to the establishment of Rome itself, thus framing Roman historical narratives and time expressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The phrase 'ab urbe condita' is commonly abbreviated as AUC and is frequently found in Roman historical texts to provide a timeline for events.
2. The founding date of Rome, traditionally set at 753 BCE, serves as Year 1 AUC, making it a critical reference for historians studying Roman history.
3. Many significant events in Roman history, such as battles and political changes, are often recorded alongside their corresponding AUC date for context.
4. The use of 'ab urbe condita' demonstrates how Romans structured their understanding of time, placing emphasis on the significance of their city's founding.
5. In later periods, especially after the fall of Rome, this dating system helped scholars and historians relate historical events back to a singular point of reference.

Review Questions

• How did 'ab urbe condita' serve as a fundamental aspect of Roman historical narrative?
  • 'Ab urbe condita' provided a foundational reference point for dating events in Roman history. By situating historical occurrences in relation to the founding of Rome in 753 BCE, it allowed historians and citizens alike to understand their past within a structured timeline. This method not only highlighted the significance of Rome's foundation but also helped frame Roman identity and pride throughout history.
• Discuss the implications of using 'ab urbe condita' for understanding Roman political structures and events.
  • 'Ab urbe condita' influenced how Romans recorded political events and structures by anchoring them to a common starting point. For example, the offices held by consuls were often recorded alongside their AUC dates. This practice not only linked political developments directly to Rome's foundation but also emphasized continuity and stability within the Roman government throughout its evolution over centuries.
• Evaluate how 'ab urbe condita' reflects broader themes in Roman society and culture during its use.
  • 'Ab urbe condita' embodies key themes in Roman society such as nationalism and historical consciousness. The emphasis on Rome's foundation reflects a deep-seated pride in their origins, influencing literature, politics, and daily life. Furthermore, this chronological framework fostered a sense of unity among Romans as they related individual and collective experiences to a shared historical narrative that began with their city's establishment.

Related terms

AUC: AUC stands for 'Anno Urbis Conditae', which is a Latin phrase meaning 'in the year from the founding of the city'. It is a method used by Romans to date events based on their relationship to the founding of Rome.

Roman Calendar: The Roman Calendar is the calendar system used by ancient Romans, which included various festivals, religious observances, and was significantly influenced by the ab urbe condita timeline.

Consul:

A consul was one of the highest elected political offices in ancient Rome, with each year being marked by the names of the two consuls in office, often calculated using the ab urbe condita timeline.