Bath Houses In Ancient Rome

In a world lacking modern technology, Ancient Romans from all walks of life frequented public bathing spaces on a daily basis. Due to the astounding popularity of these bath houses, remnants are prevalent in Italy and surrounding countries and are, therefore, easily studied by historians and archaeologists. Despite the baths’ accessibility, an overwhelming amount of information concerning the societal ties of such facilities remains ambiguous. This monograph seeks to explore the controversial subject of the status of bath houses in classical Roman society. Chosen for investigation are three topics: the clientele of the bathhouses, the place of women in public baths, and the communication which would have taken place in the baths. Although

In Book 6 of his epigraphs, he describes the baths of Etruscus and praises them highly (Martialis). He lists several other location and how the Baths of Etruscus are far superior. In Book 7, he writes a detailed review of the baths of Nero and Charinuss. He speaks poorly of the men, Nero and Charinus, but claims that the baths are some of the best he has visited. To write such fond descriptions of bath houses, and so frequently, one can assume Martial would have been a dedicated patron of the baths (Fagan). However, not all attendees of bath houses were as renowned as

This, coupled with faded menus painted on the walls of bath houses, points to the conclusion that the baths allowed guests to order food while they bathed. Most archaeologists and historians believe that these would have only been small snacks and drinks, not full meals (Locke). This discovery, once again, solidifies the social importance of the baths. The baths of Rome were a social center and a place of community unification between rich and poor. Still, women were separated throughout much of the prime of the bath houses and were often criticized for their actions within them. Despite this, the baths remained both a want and a need for nearly all Romans. Due to their popularity, the baths became more than an area for bathing. They became a place for eating, drinking, and socializing and solidified their place in the middle of Roman