Saturnalia gif3/5/2023 ![]() Nero was said to have been made “King” at a Saturnalia (probably not by chance), in order to humiliate someone by making his son sing for him. This sense of play can be seen very well in the election (by random selection) of a “King of the Saturnalia,” an individual who could make others do ridiculous acts at his will. The “gambling” taking place could be participated in by children or even slaves, who could use coins or nuts as currency in the games. For example, Romans could go about in gaudy, colorful clothes, wearing strange hats, and participating in the games and excess rampant for all to enjoy. Like the feast, wherein something unimaginable occurred (slaves and servants fed by their masters?!), the festivities for the Saturnalia were almost all of this kind of jesting nature. ![]() The most characteristic aspect of the Saturnalia was the atmosphere of play and ridiculousness. The slaves and servants were still the ones to make the meal they dine upon, and would probably be expected to clean up the mess left later. This was not a feast of equality, showing that anyone can be on top and giving some humility to the masters of the house. Nevertheless, they would not do anything too untoward, as they would know that as soon as the festival was over, their actions would likely be remembered. This reversal of the normal social order is rather obvious in the feast, wherein the servants would eat, served by their masters and able to be somewhat brash around them. Some sources emphasize the drinking and gambling during this time, but this aspect was purely for fun and did not often devolve into frenzy as it would at the Bacchanalia. These gifts were often wax candles, small toys, or other such things, with larger presents sometimes given by wealthier individuals.ĭuring the Saturnalia, many social norms were reversed, with public and civic duties suspended (normal for religious festivals in Rome) and a noticeably relaxed atmosphere for those celebrating. The giving of gifts was an important aspect, with small tokens given to friends, visitors, and others. The festival itself had three main components: gift-giving, a feast, and general merry-making/play. Saturn would obviously be worshiped at this time, as the harvests would be over and farmers could relax and enjoy the wealth and bounty given by the previous seasons. It celebrated the winter solstice, and as one can guess from the name, it was for the god Saturn, who was often related to agricultural rites. Saturnalia was a festival in ancient Rome which took place throughout the month of December, with varying lengths and dates, often starting on the 17th. The Saturnalia: What is it? When is it? And why should we care?
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