Overview
In Imperium Aeternum the customs and social values draw inspiration from the historical context of ancient Rome but are adapted to fit the fictional world and setting.
- Customs & Values;
- The treatment of Supernaturals;
- LAWS
- ECONOMY
- BEAUTY STANDARDS
CUSTOMS & VALUES
Family and Ancestry:
The family unit was highly important in Roman society. Ancestry, lineage, and the concept of the "gens" (extended family) were highly valued. Respect for elders and ancestors was expected, and family ties played a significant role in social standing and political influence. Characters may have strong ties to their bloodline, with family reputation and ancestral lineage carrying weight in social interactions. Upholding family honour and protecting one's relatives are esteemed values.
Paterfamilias:
The father, or paterfamilias, held significant authority within the family. He had power over his wife, children, and even extended family members. He was responsible for making important decisions, managing family wealth, and ensuring the family's reputation.
Gender Roles:
Roman society was patriarchal, with men holding more power and privileges than women. Women were expected to focus on domestic duties and raising children, while men held positions of authority in politics, military, and business. However, some women from noble families had more freedom and influence.
Prejudices of note:
- Society placed emphasis on modesty and chastity for women (especially patricians) with strict expectations for their behaviour and dress. Deviation from these societal norms could result in social ostracism or even legal consequences. Female characters may face societal pressures and judgments based on their adherence to these expectations.
- Women had limited legal rights and control over property in ancient Rome. They were typically under the authority of male family members, such as fathers or husbands. This can affect the agency and autonomy of female characters, particularly in matters of inheritance or legal disputes.
- Women in ancient Rome were primarily expected to fulfil traditional roles as wives and mothers. They had fewer educational and career opportunities compared to men.
- Women had limited legal rights and control over property in ancient Rome. They were typically under the authority of male family members, such as fathers or husbands. This can affect the agency and autonomy of female characters, particularly in matters of inheritance or legal disputes.
- Women in ancient Rome were primarily expected to fulfil traditional roles as wives and mothers. They had fewer educational and career opportunities compared to men.
We absolutely encourage and welcome opportunities for characters to challenge or overcome these prejudices, fostering narratives of empowerment and progress.
Social Hierarchy:
Roman society had a hierarchical structure. At the top were the aristocrats (patricians), followed by the middle class (plebeians), and at the bottom were slaves. Social status and wealth played a crucial role in determining one's place in society and opportunities available to them. Needless to say characters' social status can affect their opportunities, privileges, and interactions within the world.
Patricians: Patricians are the elite, noble class of society. Characters belonging to this social class enjoy privileges, wealth, and high status. They have access to the finest education, luxurious lifestyles, and influential connections. Patricians often hold positions of power, such as senators or high-ranking officials, giving them influence over the governance of the Roman Empire. They may have access to exclusive events, prestigious social circles, and opportunities for political advancement.
Plebeians: Plebeians make up the common people, the majority of the population. Characters from this social class have more modest means and fewer privileges compared to the Patricians. They typically engage in various occupations such as farming, trade, crafts, or working as labourers. Plebeians may live in simpler dwellings, have limited access to education, and face financial struggles. However, they can also form close-knit communities, rely on strong familial ties, and demonstrate resilience and resourcefulness.
Slaves: Slaves occupy the lowest rung of the social hierarchy. Characters who are slaves are considered property, owned by others. Their lives are characterised by servitude, labor, and lack of personal freedom. Slaves may perform various tasks, including household chores, agricultural work, or serving their masters in other capacities. They often lack legal rights and personal agency, subject to the whims and demands of their owners. Slaves may face harsh treatment and explotation..
Plebeians: Plebeians make up the common people, the majority of the population. Characters from this social class have more modest means and fewer privileges compared to the Patricians. They typically engage in various occupations such as farming, trade, crafts, or working as labourers. Plebeians may live in simpler dwellings, have limited access to education, and face financial struggles. However, they can also form close-knit communities, rely on strong familial ties, and demonstrate resilience and resourcefulness.
Slaves: Slaves occupy the lowest rung of the social hierarchy. Characters who are slaves are considered property, owned by others. Their lives are characterised by servitude, labor, and lack of personal freedom. Slaves may perform various tasks, including household chores, agricultural work, or serving their masters in other capacities. They often lack legal rights and personal agency, subject to the whims and demands of their owners. Slaves may face harsh treatment and explotation..
Citizenship:
Roman citizenship was highly valued. Citizens enjoyed certain rights and privileges, such as voting and legal protection. However, not all residents of the Roman Empire were granted citizenship, and it was a distinction that carried significant social status.
Religion and Rituals:
Religion played a central role in Roman society. The Romans worshipped a pantheon of gods and goddesses and believed in performing rituals and sacrifices to appease them. Participation in religious festivals and ceremonies was important for social cohesion and reinforcing traditional values. Characters may worship the Roman gods and participate in religious ceremonies and rituals. The gods' favour and divine intervention may be sought to aid characters in their quests and endeavours.
Honour and Virtue:
Romans placed great importance on personal honour and virtue. Traits such as courage, loyalty, and self-discipline were highly valued. Public recognition and reputation were significant, and individuals were expected to uphold a certain moral code. Characters are encouraged to seek fame, reputation, and achievements that will earn them respect and recognition within the society.
Education:
Education was highly regarded in Roman society, particularly among the upper classes. Boys received formal education in subjects such as literature, mathematics, and rhetoric, while girls focused on domestic skills and some basic education.
Roman Law:
The legal system was a fundamental aspect of Roman society. The Romans developed a comprehensive legal system that emphasised fairness, and laws were seen as a way to maintain social order and protect individual rights. Characters are expected to show respect and deference to those in positions of authority, whether it be their faction leaders, military commanders, or high-ranking officials. Disobeying or disrespecting authority figures can lead to penalties or loss of social standing. The Twelve Tables are publicly displayed in the Roman Forum, the central hub of political and social activities. This ensures that the laws are accessible to the citizens and anyone can consult them to understand their rights and obligations.
Martial Values:
The importance of martial prowess and military discipline may be emphasised in Imperium Aeternum. Characters may be expected to display courage, skill in combat, and a willingness to serve in the defence of their faction or the Roman Empire.
Leisure and Entertainment:
Romans valued leisure time and enjoyed various forms of entertainment. Characters may partake in gladiatorial games, chariot races, theatre performances, or social gatherings where they can relax, celebrate, and forge social connections.
SUPERNATURALS
Here are some general attitudes that Supernatural creatures may encounter:
Fear and Suspicion: Many people in Rome hold a deep-rooted fear and suspicion towards supernatural creatures. These beings are often seen as powerful, mysterious, and potentially dangerous. The mere presence of supernatural creatures can evoke unease and apprehension among the general population.
Superstition and Belief: The belief in supernatural beings and their abilities may be widespread in Rome. People may hold various superstitions and rituals to protect themselves from supernatural creatures or seek their favour. Some view them as manifestations of divine or otherworldly forces and approach them with reverence or caution.
Exploitation and Utilisation: Some factions or individuals in Rome view supernatural creatures as valuable resources or tools. They may seek to exploit their unique abilities, whether for military purposes, magical knowledge, or other advantageous gains. This can lead to both collaboration and conflict between factions and supernatural beings.
Prejudice and Discrimination: The face social stigma, discrimination, and even persecution based on their inherent differences and abilities. They can also be hunted for sport, poached and traded on the black market and trafficked.
Reverence and Alliance: Not all attitudes towards supernatural creatures are negative. Some factions or individuals hold a deep reverence for these beings and see them as allies or protectors. They seek to establish alliances or work closely with supernatural creatures, recognising the benefits they can bring to their cause or society.
Secrecy and Hidden Identities: Given the potential for discrimination and fear, many supernatural creatures in Rome choose to conceal their true nature and live in secrecy. They adopt human forms or operate from the shadows to protect themselves from persecution or exploitation.
LAWS
Whilst not comprehensive, here are some key laws that could have a notable impact on characters
Lex Julia de Adulteriis Coercendis (Julian Law on Adultery):
This law dealt with adultery and imposed penalties on individuals found guilty of committing adultery. In the game, this law could be used as a plot device to create conflicts and challenges for characters engaged in illicit romantic affairs.
PUNISHMENTS
The two guilty parties were sent to different islands ("dummodo in diversas insulas relegentur"), and part of their property was confiscated. Fathers were permitted to kill daughters and their partners in adultery. Husbands could kill the partners under certain circumstances and were required to divorce adulterous wives.
The two guilty parties were sent to different islands ("dummodo in diversas insulas relegentur"), and part of their property was confiscated. Fathers were permitted to kill daughters and their partners in adultery. Husbands could kill the partners under certain circumstances and were required to divorce adulterous wives.
Lex Julia de Maritandis Ordinibus (Julian Law on Marriage):
This law focused on regulating marriage, specifying rules regarding age requirements, dowries, and marriage contracts. Characters seeking to marry or engaging in arranged marriages may have to navigate the legal aspects associated with this law.
Lex Papia Poppaea (Papian-Poppaean Law):
This law aimed to increase the Roman population by promoting marriage and childbirth. It introduced incentives for marriage, imposed penalties for remaining unmarried, and restricted certain privileges to those with children. This law could impact characters' personal lives and their choices regarding marriage and family.
Lex Aquilia (Aquilian Law):
This law governed matters of property damage and personal injury, providing guidelines for compensation and legal remedies. Characters involved in disputes or facing accusations of harm or property damage may have to navigate the legal consequences outlined in this law.
Lex Cornelia de Sicariis et Veneficis (Cornelian Law on Murder and Poisoning):
This law addressed crimes related to murder and poisoning, establishing penalties for those found guilty. Characters engaged in investigations, pursuing justice, or facing accusations of such crimes may find themselves entangled in the legal intricacies associated with this law.
PUNISHMENTS
Suppliers of love potions or abortifacients to be relegated to the mines if lower class (humiliores), banished to an island if upper class (honestiores), or executed if the potion results in death.
Those who perform bewitching or binding spells to be crucified or thrown to the beasts.
Those who engage in human sacrifice or make offerings of human blood in temples to be thrown to the beasts if lower class, executed if upper class.
Practitioners of magic to be thrown to the beasts or crucified. A professional "magus" to be burned alive.
Possessors of magical books (libri artis magicae) to have their property confiscated and the books publicly burned, if upper class then exiled, if lower class executed.
Suppliers of drugs given as cures that result in death to be executed if lower class, banished to an island if upper class.
Suppliers of love potions or abortifacients to be relegated to the mines if lower class (humiliores), banished to an island if upper class (honestiores), or executed if the potion results in death. Those who perform bewitching or binding spells to be crucified or thrown to the beasts. Those who engage in human sacrifice or make offerings of human blood in temples to be thrown to the beasts if lower class, executed if upper class. Practitioners of magic to be thrown to the beasts or crucified. A professional "magus" to be burned alive. Possessors of magical books (libri artis magicae) to have their property confiscated and the books publicly burned, if upper class then exiled, if lower class executed. Suppliers of drugs given as cures that result in death to be executed if lower class, banished to an island if upper class.
Lex Iulia de Civitate (Julian Law on Citizenship):
This law regulated matters of citizenship, specifying the rights and privileges of Roman citizens and the process for granting citizenship. Characters seeking to gain or protect their citizenship status may have to navigate the complexities of this law, potentially involving bureaucratic challenges and legal hurdles.
Lex Licinia Mucia (Licinian-Mucian Law):
This law addressed matters of citizenship and sought to regulate the acquisition and retention of Roman citizenship. Characters involved in issues of citizenship, including naturalisation, the rights of foreigners, or challenges to citizenship status, may encounter the provisions and implications of this law.
ECONOMY
Currency:
The standard currency in Rome is the denarius, a silver coin widely used in Ancient Rome. Denarii serve as the medium of exchange for goods, services, and transactions.
Most characters will need to work and pay for provisions to survive.
Standard Wages:
Unskilled Labourer: 1-2 denarii per day.
Skilled Craftsman/Artisan: 3-5 denarii per day.
Soldier/Legionnaire: 5-8 denarii per day, including benefits.
Merchant/Trader: Income can vary greatly depending on success and trading ventures.
Gladiator: Varies depending on popularity and success in the arena, ranging from 1-10 denarii per fight.
Wages for characters that provide companionship:
Basic services: 1-5 denarii.
Specialised services or specific requests: 5-20 denarii.
High-end courtesans or companions: 20-100 denarii.
Exclusive or elite services: Prices can vary significantly, depending on the status and reputation of the individual.
As a reference point, here are some rough guidelines for slave prices in the setting:
Unskilled or common labourer: 10-100 denarii.
Skilled artisan or craftsman: 100-500 denarii.
Educated or specialised slave (e.g., scribe, musician): 200-1,000 denarii.
Gladiators or highly trained combat slaves: 500-5,000 denarii.
Rare or exotic slaves (e.g., from distant lands): Prices can vary significantly depending on their uniqueness and demand.
It's important to remember that slavery is a sensitive and morally complex topic, and it should be approached respectfully in the context of the setting.
Starting Denarii
You can assign average starting denarii for each character, as indicated below:
Gladiator: 50 denarii (2d4 × 10)
Centurion: 75 denarii (3d4 × 10)
Oracle: 100 denarii (4d4 × 10)
Legionnaire: 75 denarii (3d4 × 10)
Sorcerer: 100 denarii (4d4 × 10)
Thief: 50 denarii or (2d4 × 10)
Bard: 75 denarii (3d4 × 10)
Druid: 100 denarii (4d4 × 10)
x: 150 denarii or (6d4 × 10)
BEAUTY STANDARDS
For women, a youthful and symmetrical face was seen as attractive. They would often use cosmetics, such as powders and creams, to enhance their complexion. Fair skin was considered beautiful, as it signified wealth and nobility, while a tan complexion was associated with outdoor labor and lower social status. Women would also enhance their eyes with dark eyeliner and use various hairstyles and wigs to create elaborate and fashionable looks.
In terms of body shape, a slender and curvaceous figure was considered ideal. Women were encouraged to have a small waist, full breasts, and rounded hips. However, beauty ideals varied across different social classes, and what was considered attractive for noble women might be different from what was desired among the lower classes.
For men, physical fitness and a well-toned body were highly valued. They engaged in physical activities, such as sports and military training, to maintain their physique. A muscular build, broad shoulders, and a V-shaped torso were seen as desirable. Roman men also paid attention to grooming, keeping their hair and beard well-groomed and wearing fashionable clothing.