The Tour · Theme
Class and Hierarchy
How The Tour develops Class and Hierarchy.
Roman social structures are vividly depicted through the relationships between patricians, freedmen, slaves, and merchants, with characters like Thrasyllus (a freedman tutor) and Caleb (a free Sabaean merchant) navigating complex class dynamics.
Where it surfaces
- I
The relationship between Lucius (master) and Thrasyllus (freedman/slave) illustrates Roman social hierarchy, even as Thrasyllus expresses fatherly love.
- II
The contrast between Lucius's wealth and Catullus's poverty, along with the treatment of slaves like Cora and Tarrar, emphasizes the rigid class structures of Roman society.
- III
The contrast between the wealthy Roman nobles and the poor scholars of the Museum highlights social stratification.
- VI
The power dynamic between master and slave is explored through Lucius's offer of freedom and Tarrar's choice to remain in servitude, highlighting the bonds of loyalty within a rigid social structure.
- The Festival of Serapis at Canopus
The procession of wealthy Romans, slaves, and beggars underscores the social stratification of Alexandria.
- XXIV
Caleb's business dealings with Persian grandees and the elaborate ceremonies of Theban nobility highlight social stratification and economic transactions.