Plebeians Collection

Twelve Tables of Rome drawn up
The Twelve Tables, Romes first legal code, are drawn up by a commission at the request of the plebeians

Plebians revolt, ancient Rome
Revolt of the plebeians against the government of ancient Rome, 207 BC. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

George IV as Coriolanus
Coriolanus addressing the Plebeians George IV depicted as Coriolanus, addressing radicals, as the plebeians

Marcus Manlius Capitolinus condemned to death
Marcus Manlius Capitolinus, though popular with the people, is condemned to death by the patricians. Date: 385 BC

Scene in a tavern in Ancient Rome (engraving)
3647107 Scene in a tavern in Ancient Rome (engraving) by Vogel, Hermann (1856-1918); Private Collection; (add.info.: Scene in a tavern in Ancient Rome)

Menenius haranguing the Plebeians on Mount Aventinus (engraving)
2794100 Menenius haranguing the Plebeians on Mount Aventinus (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Menenius haranguing the Plebeians on Mount Aventinus)

Revolt of the Plebeians (engraving)
727770 Revolt of the Plebeians (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Revolt of the Plebeians)

Parliamentary Elections and Electioneering in the Old Days (engraving)
1041284 Parliamentary Elections and Electioneering in the Old Days (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info)

Tribunes of the People created in Ancient Rome
Tribunes of the People (Plebeian Tribunes) created in Ancient Rome. Tribunes were elected, and had the right to propose legislation before the Plebeian Council

George Cruikshank: Coriolanus Addressing the Plebeians, 1820

George Cruikshank: Coriolanus Addressing the Plebeians, 1820

Plebeians admitted to consular dignity
The plebeians of Ancient Rome are admitted to consular dignity

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In ancient Rome, the Twelve Tables were drawn up to establish laws and regulations that governed the lives of both patricians and plebeians. However, this did not prevent tensions from arising between these two social classes. The plebeians, often seen as the common people, revolted against their aristocratic counterparts in a quest for equality and representation. This struggle for rights and recognition was not limited to ancient times; even in more recent history, such as during George IV's portrayal of Coriolanus, we witness similar conflicts. One infamous incident involved Marcus Manlius Capitolinus being condemned to death for his attempts to champion the cause of the plebeians. This event serves as a reminder of the lengths some individuals would go to fight for justice and fairness. Engravings depicting scenes in taverns or on Mount Aventinus reveal glimpses into everyday life where men like Menenius passionately addressed crowds of plebeians. These images capture moments filled with fervor and determination as they rallied together towards a common goal. Shakespeare's Julius Caesar also sheds light on this historical period through Act III, Scene 2. The play showcases intense debates among characters representing different factions within Roman society - including plebeians who sought change amidst political turmoil. Furthermore, parliamentary elections in olden times were marked by electioneering tactics aimed at appealing to both patrician elites and ordinary citizens alike. Such practices highlight how even within established systems there existed opportunities for plebeian voices to be heard. George Cruikshank's artwork from 1820 titled "Coriolanus Addressing the Plebeians" captures one such moment when these marginalized individuals were given an opportunity to participate actively in decision-making processes that had previously excluded them. Ultimately, it is important to recognize that progress was made over time. Plebeians eventually gained admission into consular dignity – a significant achievement symbolizing their growing influence within Roman society.