Legal Definitions - feriae

Term: Feriae
Definition: Feriae were holidays in ancient Rome when people stopped working and celebrated. These holidays were both religious and public. During feriae, people did not do politics or go to court. Slaves also got a break from their work, but not completely. They still had to do some work. Example: One example of feriae is Saturnalia, which was a week-long holiday in December. During Saturnalia, people gave gifts, had parties, and even switched roles with their slaves. This holiday was a time to celebrate and have fun, and people did not have to worry about work or legal matters. Explanation: The example of Saturnalia illustrates the definition of feriae because it was a holiday in ancient Rome when people stopped working and celebrated. During Saturnalia, people did not have to worry about work or legal matters, and slaves got a break from their work. This is what feriae were all about - taking a break from the daily routine and enjoying time with family and friends.