THE TOGA

OR: How did the Romans walk around in 60 lbs of

wool in the Roman summer?

From Getorix’s World, by Sandra Horton and Judith Geary, curriculum to accompanyGetorix: The Eagle and The Bull

WEARING A TOGA

• Disclaimer: Authorities argue about the exact size and shape of a toga – from a half circle, to an ellipse to five yards of fabric about 60 inches wide. Since we haven’t found one preserved, we have to rely on statues and what other Roman textiles that have been found.

• Begin by folding the fabric in half lengthwise, with the side close to your body slightly below the “outside”. Remember that Romans who wore togas likely had a couple of slaves to help.

• Romans wore a simple tunic under the toga. They had the skill to put in sleeves like a t-shirt, but most images show a simple loose garment about knee length or just below, with no sleeves.

• I. If you’re the helper:

Drape one end over your “master’s” left shoulder so the end comes close to the hem of his tunic. You may slip that end under his belt to help hold it in place.

II. The rest of the fabric goes across his back and, under his right arm.

III. Bring the fabric to the front under his right arm. Gather some fabric into pleats and tuck them into the belt to give enough fullness for walking.

IV. Go around his body one more time.

• The remainder is thrown over his left shoulder and arm.

• His right arm has freedom of movement. However, the left hand can be used for very little except to grasp the edge of the toga to hold the whole thing together.

History shows us a window into our past. Historical

fiction takes us by the hand and leads us into that

strangely familiar world. -- Judith Geary, author

Getorix: The Eagle and The Bull, Celtic

adventure in ancient Rome•

•

From Getorix’s World, by Sandra Horton and Judith Geary, curriculum to accompany Getorix: The Eagle and The Bull Illustrations in the public domain, adapted from Costumes of the Greeks and Romans, by Thomas Hope, Dover Publications, 1962