History on the small screen: Rome

I've written about the role of movies in promoting interest in history, specifically "The Last Samurai" and its portrayal of Meiji Japan.

I've also written how nonfiction television programs can promote interest in history. PBS and History Channel programs and documentaries on American and world history have proved to be excellent educational tools.

But certain fictional television dramas with a historical bent also deserve recognition. I watched two episodes of Rome last night on HBO. Yes, it's a soap opera, based on interactions and disputes between various characters, that is set in ancient Rome. But in addition to the dramatic plot elements, the producers have taken care to highlight important issues in Roman society -- slavery, the Roman military system, and citizens' devotion to Greco/Roman religion.

If some of the scenes dealing with slavery, torture, and sex weren't so graphic, I would recommend this to teachers of Latin and world history at the high-school level. Of course, college students can still watch this, as well as any adult who is interested in Roman history and society.