Imperial Rome
Compare Contrast Imperial
Roman Civilization and Early
Middle Age Civilization
Strong Centeral Imperial
Gov.
Emperor in charge
Political
Feudal Western Europe
Weak localized Feudal
Kingdoms
Papal Supremacy
Centeral Laws
(12 Tables)
No central law
Professional unified Army
Peace within the empire
Mixed loyalties
among lords, vassals
Much warfare and invasions
from Viking, Muslims, and
competing kingdoms
Controlled “Known World” wide
Sea routes and road
Major import and export of
goods
Manoralism/ Self sustaining
Economy
55, 000 miles safe maintained
Roads
No major trades
Wealth based on plunder
Tribute or taxes collected from
conquered lands
Learning kept alive by Monks, Monastic Life
Mostly religious matters
Science, learning, education
encouraged
Religion was presented in Latin a language not
in the vernacular of its people virtually all
illiterate.
Religion in common language of
Greek to all
Philosophy, Idealism in art
Tried to use reason to understand
the world
Intellectual
Not allowed to criticize or go against church
teachings (church dogma, superstation)
Great Castles and Churches would be great
architectural accomplishments but no facilities
for people
Great Inventions concrete, Domes,
Arches, and Bridges made man
dominant over nature
Sanitary conditions not a consideration
Cities held millions, bathrooms
baths,
Roman Catholic
Polytheism
accepted other
religions
Strict Social
Hierarchy
Adoption of
Christianity
Strong sense of
safety
Art is realistic,
3D Movement
no other religions allowed
Social/Religious
Strict social Hierarchy
Christianity becomes
central focus in lives
Strong fear of invasion
Art is 2D Static Hierarchal