At the Detroit Institute of Arts, in the Ancient Arts section, there is an artifact of Roman making. The piece has been deemed “Gladiators Parade Helmet,” experts believe it was created in a period from the 1st century to the 3rd. The helmet was crafted out of bronze. The thickness of the bronze is believed to be due to the fact that the helmet wasn’t actually used in battle but as a ceremonial piece. The helmet is a significant piece in the history of Rome, the gladiatorial games where just one aspect of the many wonderful and gruesome creations that came from ancient Rome.
Rome started around the 8th century BC, and ever since its inception to the known world Rome has not always been the most hospitable civilization. War and suffering always followed at the footsteps of great accomplishments. There are many splendors to Rome, aside from being the first city in the history of the world that held claim to a million citizens it had many architecture feats. A mastery of plumbing allowed the people of Rome to enjoy large bathhouses where they could clean themselves and enjoy times of leisure. Running water was a
The games have always been a part of Roman society. They began as ceremonies that honored deceased ancestors. The most prolific of games was held in the 4th century. During a 170-day time span thousands of men lost their lives and countless thousands of animals met the blade. The games all kicked off with a “Parma,” this was a great parade around the building to honor the warriors about to engage in battle. This is where the athlete would have adorned the helmet. The Romans had harnessed the use of raw materials, such as metals. Especially bronze. As I said earlier the bronze helmet at the museum has a rather thin, which would lend one to believe that is was just for show and not use. Other helmets have been found and are much thicker. The helmets are finally crafted and reflect the great time spent on the gladiator games by the people.
Although the helmet is incased at the museum among many other artifacts, its importance is great. At the time Rome presided over all of the know world, and the most popular event of the time was the great games. To imagine what the person that wore it had been through and scene