| This dissertation investigates the participants and physical environment of the courtroom in Rome in the first two centuries AD. Resisting the urge to pull conclusions from the vast evidence found in Cicero's writings into the imperial period—a dangerous practice, since 50 years had passed—this study focuses exclusively on imperial sources. Five chapters comprise the dissertation. The first two examine the physical setting of Rome's courtrooms. Sections topographically place the courts of the praetor urbanus, the praetor peregrinus, the emperor, the praefectus urbi, the praefectus praetorio, and the consul within the city. Suggestions as to the possible location of the courts of other magistrates, such as the remaining praetors and the unus iudex, are made. The physical arrangement of the participants at a trial is reconstructed. Specific attention is given to the Centumviral court's arrangement within the Basilica Iulia.; Chapter Three studies the composition, participation, and motivations of the audience found within Rome's courts. Ties of blood, friendship, and patronage, as well as an opportunity to receive pay, brought individuals to court. Unlike its modern descendant, the audience actively participated through cheering, shouting, and presenting visual aids. The practice of hiring individuals to participate is examined.; Chapters Four and Five investigate the advocate in the courts of Rome. The interwoven aspects of status, pay, the ‘decline of oratory’, delatores, and provincial background are explored. Study of the cases advocates take, and what motivated advocates to undertake specific cases is included. Examination follows of the nature of an advocate's preparation of a case, the several issues he juggles while speaking, as well as the impact a trial had on an advocate in terms of exertion and anxiety. |
