Calendar of Events
Tuesday, June 12, 2018
McClung Museum: Femina Princeps: A First Lady of the Roman Empire
Category: Exhibitions, visual art, Free event and History, heritage
While ancient Roman coins usually display emperors, a surprising number depict female members of the imperial family, particularly empresses. Coins are powerful propaganda used to advance political ideals and reinforce social mores. Closer observation of these coins reveals a tension between Roman society’s expectations for women and the reality some created for themselves.
In ancient Rome, women had no formal political role and were not allowed to vote or hold public office. They were expected to devote themselves to their family and oversee the domestic sphere. Depictions of goddesses on coins highlight this feminine ideal. Women who stepped outside gender norms, especially empresses who gained informal power, were seen as a threat to social and political order. Julia Domna is one such woman. She exerted political influence over two consecutive reigning emperors—her husband, Septimius Severus, and son, Caracalla—and jump started a dynasty of influential imperial women from the East.
McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture, 1327 Circle Park Dr on the UT campus, Knoxville, TN 37996. Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9AM-5PM, Sunday, 1-5PM. Information: 865-974-2144, http://mcclungmuseum.utk.edu
Ijams Nature Center: Events
Category: Classes, workshops, Festivals, special events, Free event, Health, wellness, Kids, family and Science, nature
View the calendar of ongoing events at http://ijams.org/events/
Ijams Nature Center, 2915 Island Home Ave, Knoxville, TN 37920. Hours: Grounds and trails open during daylight hours. Call for Visitor Center hours. Information: 865-577-4717, www.ijams.org
Trollkretsen Scandinavian Dancers at the Laurel Theater
Category: Dance, movement, Free event and Music
Tuesdays at 7:30. No partner necessary. Dances include polskor, schottische, waltzes and more. Call 865-522-0515.
At the Laurel Theater, 1538 Laurel Ave, Knoxville, TN 37916. For information: 865-522-5851, www.jubileearts.org.
