• Track_Shovel@slrpnk.net
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    6
    ·
    28 days ago

    I thought the grass crown and Laurel crown were synonymous, and both worn during a triumph.

    Thanks for the share, as always

    • PugJesus@lemmy.worldOPM
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      5
      ·
      28 days ago

      The laurel crown was made of bay laurel, and used for various achievements. It’s the one we see/think of when we think of wreath crowns in Rome.

      The Grass Crown was much, much rarer - it was granted only to someone who had saved an entire legion - or multiple legions - from certain destruction. Furthermore, it was not granted by the Senate or any general or magistrate - it was granted only by the acclaim of the saved legion itself. The Grass Crown was woven from the local plants of the battlefield the legion(s) were saved on by the saved soldiers themselves. Only a small handful of people in the history of Rome ever received such a high honor. May not have been as good for one’s political career as a triumph through the streets of Rome, but it was the most highly esteemed honor a Roman soldier could be awarded.