What is toga?

A toga was a distinctive garment in ancient Rome, made of a single piece of wool cloth draped around the body. It was typically worn by male Roman citizens, symbolizing their status and freedom.

  • Significance: The <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Toga's%20Symbolism">toga's symbolism</a> was immense. It represented citizenship, peace, and civilian life, contrasting with military attire. Different types of togas existed to denote rank, occasion, or mourning.
  • Construction: The toga was a large, semi-circular piece of wool, typically undyed (toga virilis). Creating the distinctive draping required skill and often assistance.
  • Types: There were various types of togas, including the:
    • Toga virilis: The plain white toga worn by adult male citizens.
    • Toga praetexta: A toga with a purple stripe, worn by magistrates and young noblemen.
    • Toga candida: A whitened toga worn by candidates for public office.
    • Toga pulla: A dark-colored toga worn during mourning.
  • Decline: Over time, the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Decline%20of%20the%20Toga">decline of the toga</a> as everyday wear occurred, with more practical garments becoming common. It remained a ceremonial garment, however.
  • Gender: The <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Toga%20and%20Gender">toga and gender</a> are linked because only male Roman citizens were permitted to wear the formal toga. Women wore stolas.