The Story Of Rome And Pompeii

Video artistry is used to excellent advantage in this guide to ancient Rome and Pompeii. Through the use of "graphic architecture" the grandeur that was Rome is recreated, as scenes of contemporary ruins are overlaid with images of what the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Circus Maximus, and other structures actually looked like. a running commentary on social life in ancient Rome adds zest to the excellent pictorial content--stories about Caligula who was either madder than a hatter or making a subtle political point when he nominated his favorite horse for a Senate post, or the plight of the Vestal Virgins who faced the unsavory choice of chastity or being buried alive, or Nero (who didn't fiddle while Rome burned, the man was out of town). Those looking for links between decadent Rome and contemporary America will also find them here: theatergoers were known for strongly encouraging the actors and actresses to strip during plays (today we have The Bare Facts Video Guide for modern patrons who want to see their faves au naturel), and during the bloody gladiator fights, spectators were known to decide the fate of the vanquished with a familiar gesture: thumbs-up or thumbs-down. There are also detours to the Roman Baths (site of the original hot tub parties, until the spoilsport Hadrian nixed mixed bathing) and Trajan's Market, a place for mall rats to hang out. Those who think that life in ancient Rome was a big time bore will discover otherwise in this enjoyable overview. Highly recommended. (R. Pitman)