On Agriculture by Columbella - Essay Example

The dilemmas that faced a Roman slave owner as revealed from the article are as follows: (1) functions of providing responsibilities to the foreman and the slave in terms of assigning tasks and monitoring their performance; (2) determining the characteristics of the foreman and the slave to delegate tasks that are compatible with traits such as physical appearance and behavior; (3) inspecting the security and safety of the slaves in their respective prison cells; (4) being directly involved in tasting the quality of food and drink is given to the slave; as well as examining clothes, foot, and hand coverings; and (5) granting permission to file complaints and privileges (such as exemption from work for pregnant slaves and even freedom).

 A Roman slave owner could be harsh in treating the slave, only in so far that protection and security are assured. Binding them in chains and ensuring that they are well-guarded could be regarded in contemporary times as harsh treatment. However, during those days, these activities are actually expected from the Roman landowners. In this regard, control could be maintained by the landowners through close supervision and direct inspection of both the foreman who has direct governance on the slaves and of the slaves themselves.