Family Life In The Roman Empire

281 Words2 Pages
Family life was an important factor in the Roman Empire. The Paterfamilias were the dominant male in the family and were to be their family’s guardian. All of the upper-class children were expected to be able to read and write. The boys were taught reading, writing, moral principles, family values, law, and physical training. Almost all of the marriages were arranged. By the A.D. 100’s, family life was changing. The paterfamilias didn’t have complete control over children, they could not have their children sold into slavery or put to death, the husband’s absolute authority over the wife went away, and women no longer had to have guardians. Family life was changing. The word Pax Romana means “the Roman Peace. “ During this time, the ruler