National Latin Exam Study Guide: A Journey Through Ancient Rome

 

These are the qualities of life to which every Citizen (and, ideally, everyone else) should aspire. They are the heart of the Via Romana — the Roman Way — and are thought to be those qualities which gave the Roman Republic the moral strength to conquer and civilize the world. Today, they are the rods against which we can measure our own behavior and character, and we can strive to better understand and practice them in our everyday lives.

 

 

Auctoritas: "Spiritual Authority" The sense of one's social standing, built up through experience, Pietas, and Industria.

 

Comitas: "Humor" Ease of manner, courtesy, openness, and friendliness.

 

Clementia: "Mercy" Mildness and gentleness.

 

Dignitas: "Dignity" A sense of self-worth, personal pride.

 

Firmitas: "Tenacity" Strength of mind, the ability to stick to one's purpose.

 

Frugalitas: "Frugalness" Economy and simplicity of style, without being miserly.

 

Gravitas: "Gravity" A sense of the importance of the matter at hand, responsibility and earnestness.  

Honestas: "Respectibility" The image that one presents as a respectable member of society.

 

Humanitas: "Humanity" Refinement, civilization, learning, and being cultured.

 

Industria: "Industriousness" Hard work.

 

Pietas: "Dutifulness" More than religious piety; a respect for the natural order socially, politically,

and religiously. Includes the ideas of patriotism and devotion to others.

 

Prudentia: "Prudence" Foresight, wisdom, and personal discretion.

 

Salubritas: "Wholesomeness" Health and cleanliness.

 

Severitas: "Sternness" Gravity, self-control.

 

Veritas: "Truthfulness" Honesty in dealing with others.