04-29-2020, 09:53 AM
Can someone clarify a details on the roman family unit and Paterfamilias? If in doubt, the time frame is late republic.
I understand the role as being a legal, moral and social one of heading the family, and that family extended beyond what we might call family today, servants, slaves etc. But I don't understand the scope of it, in particular as to how they divided:
Any additional info would be appreciated too!
I understand the role as being a legal, moral and social one of heading the family, and that family extended beyond what we might call family today, servants, slaves etc. But I don't understand the scope of it, in particular as to how they divided:
- Were adult sons subject to their paterfamlias? or did they take on the role when they became an adult and / or got married / moved out?
- So a child's paterfamilias might be his grandfather if he was still alive?
- Would brothers become paterfamilias of their own families on their fathers death, or would the older brother take the role and oversee his younger brother, or possibly an uncle (fathers brother) would take the role if there was one?
Any additional info would be appreciated too!