Reading Practice: Unraveling Ancient Rome’s Legacy

Read the passage carefully and answer the questions

Ancient Rome, a civilization that flourished for over a millennium, left an indelible mark on world history. From its humble beginnings as a small settlement on the banks of the Tiber River, Rome grew into a vast empire that encompassed much of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

The Roman Republic, established around 509 BCE, laid the groundwork for many modern political systems. It introduced concepts such as checks and balances, separation of powers, and elected representatives. However, internal conflicts and power struggles eventually led to its downfall.

Julius Caesar, a brilliant military commander, played a pivotal role in transforming Rome from a republic to an empire. His assassination in 44 BCE triggered a series of events that culminated in his adopted son, Octavian, becoming the first Roman Emperor. Octavian, later known as Augustus, ushered in a period of relative peace and prosperity known as the Pax Romana.

Roman engineering and architecture were revolutionary for their time. The Romans constructed an extensive network of roads, aqueducts, and public buildings that showcased their technical prowess. Many of these structures, such as the Colosseum and Pantheon, still stand today as testaments to Roman ingenuity.

The Roman legal system, codified in the Corpus Juris Civilis under Emperor Justinian I, forms the basis of many modern legal systems. Roman law introduced concepts like the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial, which remain fundamental principles in jurisprudence today.

Latin, the language of the Romans, continued to influence European languages long after the fall of the empire. It remained the language of scholarship, diplomacy, and the Catholic Church for centuries. Many English words and phrases can trace their origins back to Latin roots.

The decline and fall of the Roman Empire in 476 CE marked the end of an era, but its legacy lived on. The Byzantine Empire, centered in Constantinople, continued Roman traditions for nearly a thousand years more. Even today, Roman influence can be seen in various aspects of modern society, from architecture and law to language and governance.

Questions:

Complete the sentences below.

Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.

1. Rome was initially a small settlement located on the banks of the _______ River.

2. The Roman Republic was founded around the year _______.

3. _______ was instrumental in Rome’s transition from a republic to an empire.

4. The period of peace and prosperity under Augustus was known as _______.

5. The _______ and Pantheon are examples of enduring Roman architecture.

6. Emperor _______ was responsible for codifying Roman law in the Corpus Juris Civilis.

7. The Western Roman Empire fell in the year _______.

Do more IELTS Reading practice: Sports and Exercise Topic and Urban Farming Topic

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