Photo Credit Sebastian Harris | Photography
Recent archaeological discoveries in Pompeii have shed light on the lives of ordinary citizens, offering a captivating window into their daily routines, personal aesthetics, and sacred traditions. Today’s entrepreneurs and business owners can draw inspiration from these individuals who faced challenges with determination and pursued their dreams. The Lararium, an archaeological site in the northern region of Pompeii, stands as a remarkable testament to this era. Archaeologists have meticulously recreated plaster casts in a neighboring apartment, preserving the story of an individual who not only fell victim to Mount Vesuvius’ wrath but also had a life filled with treasured memories and personal belongings. The intricate designs found within these apartments unveil their aspirations for the future, providing a captivating glimpse into their hopes and dreams.
The House of the Lararium represents a social class in the Roman Empire that strived for social status while facing vulnerability during times of political turmoil and famine. Although the courtyard and cistern basin were adorned with magnificent paintings, limited funds prevented the decoration of all five rooms, one of which served as a storage space. In the other rooms, archaeologists discovered objects made of precious materials like bronze and glass, alongside simple wooden furniture. These findings exemplify the ambitions and limitations of this social stratum, where dreams of a prosperous future often clashed with the practical realities of everyday life.
The enigmatic identity of the individual whose story unfolds within these Pompeiian walls continues to captivate modern entrepreneurs. Just as the ancient inhabitants sought to construct a public image that reflected their desires, today’s business owners strive to establish trust and identity in their ventures. Although we may never know the true identity of this person, the values of public gardens and seizing opportunities resonate strongly. The artifacts left behind offer profound insights into a world that pursued social and economic advancement, compelling us to reflect on our own aspirations and the legacy we aspire to leave behind.
Embark on a captivating journey through the two-story, five-room apartment of Pompeii, where remnants of a bygone era await exploration. The simplicity of the bedroom, the symbolism embedded in the furnishings, and the practicality of the kitchen and storage room vividly depict life in Pompeii. Glass plates, ceramic cups, and other artifacts provide glimpses into the refined taste and lifestyle of its inhabitants. As we embrace the comforts of modern life, let us not forget that inspiration can be found in unexpected places and times. The artifacts left behind by these ancient residents invite us to contemplate our own lives and the lasting impact we wish to have on future generations.
Read Elisabeth Sloan’s article in the October 2022 issue of The Bellwether magazine that covers this topic in depth.
Elisabeth is a native Texan from the Dallas/Fort Worth Area. Growing up within the Theater by age 4, she began to wonder what it truly meant to have “character,” and the definitions of “The Human Condition.” Musician, Artist, Ancient Historian and Cultural Anthropologist, PhD Student of Natural and Integrative Medicine, Philosopher and Writer, Elisabeth lives by the values of utilizing humor, quantum physics, art, and the references available through history and modern medical technology to create expansive forms of healing by unifying ancient and modern techniques to explore and enhance the Human Condition.
