Ap World History Comparative Essay

Discuss the similarities and differences in the unique cultural developments and contributions of Rome and Gupta during the classical time period of the Roman and Gupta empires

Thesis:

While both the Roman and Gupta empires experienced an era of peace throughout their existence, the difference was the Guptas had mathematical advancements, while the Roman empire had numerous architectural advancements.

Similarity:

Both the Roman and Gupta empires experienced an era of peace throughout their existence. The peace created by the Roman and Gupta empires enabled many cultural developments including the construction of elaborate monuments, magnificent paintings and many ideas on astronomy, literature, and mathematics. This time of peace and security allowed many thinkers to ponder on how they exactly came to existence therefore leading to the rise of many religious beliefs, such as Hinduism. The golden age of the Guptas also made them focus more on trade especially between East and Southeast Asia, making it an important cultural center. The era of peace in Rome was during the first two centuries C.E., known as the Pax Romana, which was imperial Rome’s greatest extent and authority through government . During the Pax Romana, Rome was able to focus on art and architecture such as the building of the Pantheon, which is a dome building that represents the genius of roman architects, and the Colosseum, which was an amphitheater used for gladiator fights, naval battles and reenactments .

Difference:

The difference was the Gupta empire had mathematical advancements, while the Roman empire had numerous architectural advancements. The Roman empire used various innovative engineering techniques in the construction of their best-known buildings.  For instance, the Romans used the arch and waterproof concrete for efficient and sturdy construction.  Furthermore, the Romans had a sewage system know as Cloaca Maxima.  This sewage system guaranteed a cleaner empire and...