The Saturnalia, written by Macrobius in the early fifth century CE, is a work that consists of an account of discussions held at the house of Vettius Agorius Praetextatus during the holiday of the Saturnalia. It is cast in the form of a dialogue and treats subjects as diverse as the divinity of the Sun, the quirks of human digestion, and the mastery of Virgil in diction, rhetoric, philosophy, and religion. The work is a treasure trove of otherwise unattested Roman lore and has been prized since the Renaissance for its rich content and historical significance.
Martial's "Xenia" is a collection of epigrams, short witty poems, focusing on gifts exchanged during the Roman festival of Saturnalia. The poems offer a glimpse into the social customs and practices of gift-giving during this festive period. They describe a wide variety of gifts, from food and drink to more luxurious items, providing insights into the tastes and preferences of Roman society. The epigrams are known for their humor and often feature playful or satirical elements, reflecting the lighthearted and festive atmosphere of Saturnalia. "Xenia" is a valuable source for understanding the social and cultural aspects of Roman life during the time of Martial.
No togas today please. Natalie celebrates the mid-winter festival of Ancient Rome, Saturnalia. According to Catullus, it's the 'best of days'.
Expect cross-dressing, sweets, drinking games and the wearing of special pyjamas. Oh and anarchy and jokes. Sounds a bit like a Christmas pantomime? Not surprising, according to veteran pantomime dame André Vincent, who traces the origins of panto back to the fifth century. Early in that same century - late antiquity - a Roman Christian named Macrobius wrote the most comprehensive extant guide to Saturnalia, which was celebrated in some places, in one way or another, until possibly the eleventh century.
You are invited to be part of this festive show which includes gifts for the entire Radio Theatre audience (cue noisy rustling of sweet bags) and the wearing of traditional Saturnalian pointy hats (the 'pileus') to celebrate. Even Professor Llewelyn Morgan has one. Honest.
Producer...Mary Ward-Lowery
Natalie Haynes Stands Up for the Classics 