Classics key terms

An ancient kingdom north of the Danube, corresponding largely to modern Romania, conquered by Trajan in two wars.

An honorary title awarded to Trajan after his first Dacian victory, identifying him as the conqueror of the Dacians.

The rhythmic metre of ancient Greek epic poetry, consisting of six metrical feet in each line.

A mask placed over a dead person’s face; examples from Grave Circle A were made of gold.

King of Dacia who opposed Trajan in the wars of AD 101–102 and AD 105–106; he took his own life rather than be captured.

Deliberately causing someone to believe something false, for example by lying or concealing an identity.

Working out how an unfamiliar writing system represents language so that its texts can be read.

A decision passed by a vote of the Assembly or Council. In fourth-century Athens, a decree could not override an existing law.

The escorting of a Roman patron by clients as he went out, particularly to the forum.

Hercules’ wife, who unknowingly sends him a poisoned shirt because she believes it will restore his love.

An alliance founded after the Persian Wars, whose members contributed ships and soldiers or money to expeditions led by Athens. It gradually became an Athenian empire.

A political leader who gains influence by appealing to the people’s desires or emotions; in Plutarch’s comparison, this represents a failure to maintain proper leadership.

A system of government in which the citizen body exercises political power, including debating and deciding public policy. In Athens, this did not mean participation by every resident.

A Roman silver coin; Mark Antony’s legionary denarii carry naval and legionary imagery.

Dating wood by comparing patterns of annual tree rings with other ring sequences.

A ruler who exercises oppressive power for personal purposes rather than the community’s good.

An ornamental band worn around the head.

The virgin goddess of hunting and the woods, to whom Camilla is dedicated as an infant.

Poetry intended to teach or instruct. Hesiod’s Works and Days uses myth to explain human suffering and convey lessons.

A naval manoeuvre in which ships pass through gaps in an enemy line to gain a position from which to attack.

A choral song in honour of Dionysus, performed with dancing and entered in competitions.

An action by a god that influences human events, such as protecting a warrior, sending an omen or deceiving an opponent.

The Athenian citizen body, especially the ordinary citizens who participated in democratic decision-making.

An enslaved person compelled to work within an owner’s household, rather than employed as a free, paid servant.

A private Roman house, typically associated with a wealthier household. The plural is also domus.

Additional gifts or bonus payments given to soldiers by an emperor.

Money or property provided in connection with a marriage.