A slave’s day began at daybreak. If his
master lived in a cold climate, the first job of the day for a day would be to
fire up the hypocaust. When his master awoke, a slave would be expected to
assist dressing him. When the day properly began, a whole group of slaves
started set tasks, such as walking children to school, cleaning a villa, washing clothes, tidying a garden etc. A
group of slaves would work in a kitchen preparing the day’s meals. When a rich
man and his family bathed at home, slaves would help out by drying them once
they had finished and dressing them. When a master moved around, slaves would
carry him in a litter. When a master entertained, slaves would ensure a constant
supply of food and drink. If guests had to return home and it was dark, a slave
or slaves would walk ahead of them with a lighted torch.