The Colosseum:

A Window to Ancient Rome

1. Read the following text:

The Colosseum, also called the Flavian Amphitheatre, is one of the most remarkable structures from ancient Rome. Located in the heart of Rome, Italy, it stands as a symbol of the Roman Empire's might and innovation, even after nearly two millennia.

Construction of the Colosseum began in 70 AD under Emperor Vespasian and was completed in 80 AD by his son, Emperor Titus. It was primarily used for gladiator battles, animal hunts, and large public events, such as reenactments of famous battles and mythological dramas. These spectacles were not only entertainment but also a way for emperors to gain popularity and demonstrate their power.

The amphitheater could seat approximately 50,000 spectators, arranged according to Roman social hierarchy. The wealthiest citizens, including the emperor and senators, had seats closest to the action, while the poorest citizens, slaves, and women sat in the upper sections.

Despite its age and partial ruin caused by earthquakes, fires, and human activity, the Colosseum remains an iconic tourist attraction. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a monument to the cultural and architectural achievements of ancient Rome. Visitors from all over the world come to admire its grandeur and reflect on its complex history of glory and violence.

Exercises:

Vocabulary: Match the words with their meaning:

1. Spectacle: a. A system where people are ranked based on status or authority

2. Hierarchy b. A public performance or event that is exciting to watch.

3. Reenactment c.The acting out of a past event.

Think About This:

1. If you were a Roman citizen, where do you think you would sit in the Colosseum, and why?

2. How does the Colosseum reflect both the brilliance and the brutality of ancient Rome?

Comprehension Questions

1. When was the Colosseum completed?

a) 50 AD
b) 70 AD
c) 80 AD

2. What were some events held at the Colosseum?

a) Religious ceremonies and weddings
b) Gladiator battles and mythological dramas
c) Political debates and festivals

3. Who had the best seats in the Colosseum?

a) Women and slaves
b) Wealthy citizens and senators
c) Soldiers and merchants

4. What has damaged the Colosseum over time?(Write two reasons from the text.)

5. Why is the Colosseum considered an iconic landmark today?
   (Write one reason.)

True or False

• The Colosseum was built by Emperor Nero. (T/F)

• It is located in the heart of Rome. (T/F)

• The Colosseum could hold about 50,000 spectators. (T/F)

Explore and Reflect (speaking practice)

• Imagine you are a gladiator about to enter the arena. How would you feel? What would you see and hear?

• Do you think it’s important to preserve monuments like the Colosseum? Why or why not?

Bonus Task: Research and Compare (optional challenge)

Choose a historical site in your country. Research its history and purpose. Then, compare it to the Colosseum. How are they similar or different?

Answers

Comprehension Questions

1. When was the Colosseum completed?
   c) 80 AD

2. What were some events held at the Colosseum?
   b) Gladiator battles and mythological dramas

3. Who had the best seats in the Colosseum?
   b) Wealthy citizens and senators

4. What has damaged the Colosseum over time?
   Earthquakes, fires, and human activity (stone theft).

5. Why is the Colosseum considered an iconic landmark today?
   It represents the cultural and architectural achievements of ancient Rome.

Activity Results

1. Match the Words to Their Meanings

a) Spectacle - 1. A public event that is exciting to watch
b) Hierarchy - 3. A system where people are ranked based on status
c) Reenactment - 2. Acting out a past event

2. True or False

• The Colosseum was built by Emperor Nero. False

• It is located in the heart of Rome. True

• The Colosseum could hold about 50,000 spectators. True