The Greatest Roman Engineer Virtuvius and The 5 Good Emperors

Salve!

Salve is the word used by Romans to greet each other. The Roman Empire is this week’s theme. Onward!

Contents:

  1. An insightful quote by Marcus Aurelius

  2. Trivia:

    • Virtuvius: The Greatest Roman Engineer

    • The 5 Good Emperors

  3.  Puzzles:

    • Roman Numerals

    • Pop Quiz!

Do You Control the Quality of Your Thoughts?

The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.

Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius

Interesting Roman Empire Trivia

Who is Virtuvius and Why Was He the Greatest Roman Engineer?

Vitruvius, a Roman engineer, was renowned for his profound impact on architecture and engineering during the 1st century BC. He is celebrated for his comprehensive work, "De architectura," which served as a foundational text in these fields for centuries.

He is also often credited as the father of architectural acoustics, which deals with placement of structures in buildings/theatres for the most optimal sound.

Virtuvius also had an effect on Leonardo Da Vinci, who created his renowned “Virtuvian Man” as an attempt at actualizing Virtuvius’ ideal proportions for man.

Virtuvian Man by Leonardo Da Vinci

What sets Vitruvius apart is his systematic approach, combining mathematics, science, and aesthetics in architecture and engineering. His work emphasized the principles of durability, utility, and beauty in design. He was, indeed, the greatest Roman engineer due to his enduring influence on architecture and engineering theory, providing a framework that still guides modern construction, highlighting his timeless wisdom and significance.

1864 depiction of Virtuvius (right) presenting

The Five Good Emperors of Rome

The "Five Good Emperors" of Rome, spanning from 96 to 180 AD, were Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius, and Marcus Aurelius. This era is characterized by peaceful, stable, and benevolent rule.

These emperors, chosen based on merit rather than heredity, focused on wise governance, legal reforms, and public welfare. Trajan's conquests expanded the empire, while Hadrian fortified its borders. Antoninus Pius brought peace and prosperity, and Marcus Aurelius is renowned for his Stoic philosophy.

They upheld the principle of "Pax Romana," a period of relative peace and prosperity, and are celebrated for their contributions to Rome's golden age and administrative excellence.

(Left to Right): Hadrian, Antonius Pious, Nerva, Marcus Aurelius, Trajan

Fun Puzzles

#1 Roman Numerals

What is the decimal equivalent of the the following Roman numeral?

#2 Pop Quiz!

How well do you know your Roman Empire trivia?

Bonus Video

Test your Roman Empire trivia with the following video!