The Classical Community

The Classical Community. Part 1:

Both the ancient Greek and Romans can be characterized by the importance of community space. The Greek agora and the Roman forum are both condusive to the commercial and civic functions performed in them, as well as acting as a place of general gathering and community.

The urban development of Rome represents an outward expression of the crowd mentality that predominated. Isn't it approporiate for the republic of Rome to appeal to the masses? But even more so by the time Rome was an empire stretching over 3 continents. The masses were so diverse and so spread that appeasing them and catering to them was vital to the survival of Rome.

Like the Huguenots of 16th century France, the Romans believed that their success was due to favor from the gods. Therefore the buildings and monuments that they built were allowed to be built because of existing conditions (i.e. the favor of the gods shown on them).