SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING AND DESIGN

BACHELOR IN SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN ARCHITECTURE

SEMESTER ONE (MARCH 2015)

MPU 3123 TAMADUN ISLAM DAN TAMADUN

ASIA
IMPACT OF NATURAL DISASTERS ON ANCIENT CIVILISATIONS,
THE DESTRUCTION OF POMPEII

GROUP LEADER: IRYNNA ANNUAR

0317846

GROUP MEMBERS:
BOAY ZHEN JIE

0323273

CANISIUS BONG WEI PHENG

JOYCE WEE YI QIN

0319602

MAXIMILIAN LIM JAKE YANG

NATALIE KI XIAO XUAN
NG YI YANG

0318914

0319644

0318918

0319688

ONG EU XUAN

0319050

TAN WING HOE

0319602

Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Literature
2.1 Pompeiis Final Years
2.2 Adultery and Gods Punishment
2.3 Scientific Studies on Mt. Vesuvius
2.4 Pompeii Archeological Site
2.5 The Letter of the Younger Pliny
3.0 Methodology
4.0 Data Analysis
4.1 Survey Analysis
4.2 Interview Analysis
5.0 Discussion
5.1 If the people of Pompeii knew about Mount Vesuvius, they would have executed an
evacuation plan sooner.
5.2 Do you think that Pliney the Elders actions to save the citizens of Pompeii was
rational?
5.3 Do you think Mt. Vesuvius eruption was Gods revenge on the people of Pompeii?
5.4 Do you think that the excavation of Pompeii gave an impact towards the neoclassical
architecture?
5.5 As a city dweller, do you think we should be more aware of the natural phenomena
surrounding us?
6.0 Conclusion
7.0 Appendix

1.0 Introduction
For the first assignment of Tamadun Islam dan Tamadun Asia (TITAS), we, the students from the
March 2015 Intake of Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Archietcture, have prepared this report
documenting our topic of ancient volcanic eruptions - specifically, Pompeii - and the relation it has
had on our history, culture, religion and us.
This report is broken up into various segments, ranging from a number of different perspectives and
sources of information that have guided us in understanding the topic, as well as the response it has
had in our society. Ranging from literary research and online documentation to survey forms, this
compilation is a round-up of all of the aspects studied.

Our focus was on the volcanic eruption of Pompeii - caused by Mt. Vesuvius, a semi-dormant
volcano that was responsible for the ultimate demise of a great ancient civilization. We chose to focus
on this particular case study because we believe that it is the strongest example of the disaster of a
natural phenomenon - one that is well-known and talked about to this day.
The city of Pompeii - one of the early civilizations that date back to '69 AD, was a thriving city that
lived on the fertile soil and preferable weather on the coast of Italy. Back before its demise, the city
was well known for the extensive depth the community had - living as a fascinating settlement that
was more advanced than expected for an ancient Roman city, with amphitheatres, gymnasiums, piers
and complex water systems.
Lost for approximately 1,500 years before recovery began, the ancient city was lost after the eruption
of the volcano - Mt. Vesuvius. The damage caused by the eruption was catastrophic, completely
destroying the community in such a drastic moment that corpses were found frozen in the split
second before their deaths. Nowadays, Pompeii is considered one of the most famous and
educational examples of ancient civilizations. The site is still-standing - with constant maintenance and is one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites.

2.0 Literature

The Letters of the Younger Pliny (Penguin Classics) Paperback August 30, 1963 by Pliny
the Younger (Author), Betty Radice (Translator, Introduction)

Pliny the Younger, Letters 6.16 and 6.20 [From Penguin translation by Betty Radice. Notes by Futrell.]
The book mentioned above documents over a hundred letters written by Pliny the Younger, who was one
of the two witnesses of the eruption of the volcano - Mount Vesuvius, which destroyed the City of
Pompeii. The other witness being his heroic uncle, Pliny the Elder. Pliny the Younger was seventeen at
that time, and his uncle was stationed at Misenum, a town located right across the bay of Pompeii,
roughly 20 miles away, where they both witnessed the tragic phenomenon.
In relation to our topic of choice, there are two letters in particular, labeled Letter 6.16 and Letter 6.20
which recorded the account of his uncles death during his attempt to rescue the victims of the eruption
and the terrors he himself faced when he was left at Misenum after the eruption, respectively. Both letters
are written to Cornelius Tacitus, a senator and historian of the Roman Empire as well as a friend and
admirer of Pliny the Younger. According to his letters, the eruption was described as an umbrella pine,
for it rose to a great height on a sort of trunk and then split off into branches, I imagine because it was
thrust upwards by the first blast and then left unsupported as the pressure subsided, or else it was borne
down by its own weight so that it spread out and gradually dispersed. (Letter 6.16) The fearless actions
of his uncle were also recorded in vivid detail, He changed his plans, and what he had begun in a spirit
of inquiry he completed as a hero. He gave orders for the warships to be launched and went on board
himself with the intention of bringing help to many more people besides Rectina, for this lovely stretch of
coast was thickly populated. He hurried to the place which everyone else was hastily leaving, steering his
course straight for the danger zone. (Letter 6.16). It is believed that Pliny the Elder died on the beach at
Stabiae, as he had asthma and experienced breathing difficulties while being exposed to the toxic gases
caused by the eruption. Accounts recorded in Letter 6.20 included noticeable environmental,
geographical and climatic changes happening throughout the area. These because vital information

provided for the people to understand more about natural disasters - especially volcanic eruptions - which
were still unusual to them at that time.

Pompeiis final years

On February AD 62, a devastating earthquake occurred in Pompeii which caused extensive
damages to the coastal towns, and a series of aftershocks continued for several days.
Archeological evidence shows that the earthquake had been observed throughout the town, and
most houses had become inhabitable. Earthquakes were common in Pompeii, no matter how
severe this or had been, it wasnt going to frighten them all away. Some inhabitants left on their
own, but many concentrated on making necessary repairs, and chose to rebuild the significant
places. But despite the well advanced construction work in the '62 earthquake, a number of
important public structures still lay in ruins, even after seventeen years of the disaster. This
earthquake is commonly interpreted as the precursor of the '79 volcanic eruption. The earthquake
signaled the beginning of an increased volcanic activity that culminated in the following
eruption. On 24 to 25th August AD '79, Vesuvius erupted yet again. The consequent destruction
of Pompeii and the nearby town of Herculaneum sent shockwaves across the ancient world. First,
the clouds scattered over the day, settling everything into darkness. Then voices of people calling
for help could be heard. Pompeii was engulfed in flames and ashes, smoke and fire forced their
way into houses. In some places, fragments of rock and bigger stones fell upon house roofs,
emitting sparks of fire. The inhabitants hurried to seek refuge beneath the nearest shelter while
the whole elements of civilizations were broken up. The darkness lasted for several days,
terrifying the populace. By the end of August 25, the landscape around Mount Vesuvius had
changed dramatically, and Pompeii had been buried so completely that it would have been
impossible to even approximately locate the areas where the city once stood. Pompei lay

plundered and buried, the ancient families dispersed and its purpose decimated. A city of 20,000
inhabitants had vanished into history.
1. Etienne, R. (1992). The Last Days of Pompeii. In Pompeii: The Day A City Died. New
York: H.N. Abrams.
2. Amery,C., & Curran, B. (2002). The City Vanishes. In The Lost World of Pompeii (p. 12).
Los Angeles: J. Paul Getty Museum.
3. Zanker, P. (1998). The Citys Final Years. In Pompeii: Public and Private Life.
Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press.
4. Dobbins, J. (2007). The World of Pompeii (p.18). London: Routledge.
5. Beard, M. (2008). Introduction. In Pompeii: The Life of A Roman Town. London: Profile.
Mason, F. (2013). The Earthquake. In Pompeii: A History of the City and the Eruption of Mount
Vesuvius.

Adultery and gods punishment

A verse from the Quran be goes, So, when they forgot (the warning) with which they
had been reminded, We opened for them the gates of every (pleasant) thing, until in the midst of
their enjoyment in that which they were given, all of a sudden, We took them (in punishment), so
They were plunged into destruction with deep regrets and sorrows and so the root of the people
who did wrong was cut off. This verse relates to the incidents that took place in Pompeii.
Pompeians were blessed with fertile land, frequent rains and countless natural resources. This
allowed them to lead carefree lives filled with love, adultery and homosexuality. These acts of
indecency were believed to be the main factor of Gods punishment; the total destruction of the
city of Pompeii. In Pompeii, it was hard to avoid the pornographic images publicly drawn on
their walls. It is safe to say that the Pompeians were extremely proud of their perversity, openly
worshipping to the Goddess of Love, The God of Sexual Desire, and the God Of Seduction.
Archaeologists who had excavated the ruins were shocked by their open perversity. The
destruction of Pompeii was so catastrophic, that it was literally removed from the map of the

world. They were hit by deadly clouds of ash and lava, seizing them as they carried out their
daily lives. For example, a family was frozen during a meal. Interestingly, numerous couples of
the same sex were found petrified during intercourse.
The blast that took thousands of lives was a punishment from God, reminding us that if we do
not follow His orders, destruction will overcome our lands.

Reference: Yahya, H. (1999). Pompeii Had A Similar End. In Perished Nations (3rd ed.).
London: Ta-ha.

Scientific Study on Mt Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius, located on the west coast of Italy, is the only active volcano on mainland
Europe. It is popularly known for its eruption that destroyed the city of Pompeii. It is classed as a
complex stratovolcano because its eruptions involve explosive eruptions as well as pyroclastic
flows (hot and dry rock fragments and gases that move away from the vent). Also known as
composite cones, stratovolcanos are not only picturesque but are also the most deadly of the
volcano types. During February of A.D. '62., there was a major earthquake that rocked the city.
Originating beneath Mount Vesuvius, it had caused major damage to the springs and piping that
provided the citys water. The historian, Seneca, recorded that these quakes lasted for several
days and managed to damage the nearby town of Herculaneum and Naples. Due to seismic
activity being so uncommon in Pompeii, the citizens were unprepared for the eruption that took
place on the 24th of August.
''It resembled a Mediterranean pine more than any other tree, like a very high tree, the cloud went
high and expanded in different branches sometimes white, sometimes dark and stained by the
sustained sand and ashes. Pliny described as he watched the eruption from 13 miles away. The

next morning, volcanic gases and debris engulfed the city of Pompeii. Most victims died from
the heated air that burned their lungs and contracted their muscles, causing them to curl their
bodies in pain. They were buried in ash and were naturally preserved for hundreds of years. Pliny
the Younger also observed that a tsunami had happened sometime during the climax of the
eruption.

Pompeii archeological site

In '63 A.D., Mount Vesuvius showed signs of life in a series of earthquakes across the
region. Because of that, the population of Pompeii fled in fear. However, some had chose to stay.
16 years later in '79 A.D., it struck again and scorching ash and hot pumice stones rained down
upon the city, while poisonous air filled the area for 3 days. During the excavation, archeologist
found presence of skeletons on their frozen final moments, raising their arms to halt the rush of
hot air. They were buried alive and had now been frozen in time, buried 20 feet underneath the
ground. The citys ruins cover an area of 164 acres. Other than the 60 acres in the East, where the
remains are completely unexcavated, the rest of the area were excavated and studied in the 18th
century. Once uncovered from the volcanic ashes, the ruins began their natural process of decay.
Preservation and conservation methods have been applied onto the city walls, interiors,
furnishing, wall paintings, and specific structures to prevent further deterioration. The site offers
a clear view of the entire Roman urban context. It has been exposed for more than 200 years and
has suffered from unstable geology, climate, and environment. Till this day, there has been
continuing management and conservation of Pompeii. Local officials and international
preservation bodies have collaborated to produce the first major management and conservation
survey of the entire site titled Un Piano per Pompei. By 1998, the restoration and maintenance

program of Pompeii completed maintenance of over 1,500 important buildings, such as

amphitheaters and small houses, reconstructed representative houses such as the House of the
Silver Wedding Anniversary, and also the conservation plan of the entire city blocks. This project
is intended to provide a standard for future restoration.
Today, Pompeii has become a popular tourist spot with over 2 million people visiting the site per
year. The income from tourism is used to support the site preservation. It has become a crucial
importance of economy for the whole region. Pompeii has also long been an influence on
European art and culture - and is an example of how the world of conservation can coexist with
the public access.

Amery, C., & Berendt, J. (2001). Vanishing Histories : 100 Endangered Sites from the World
Monuments Watch. New York: Harry N. Abrams, Incorporated.

3.0 Methodology
Research Methodology
The purpose of this research is to point out our views about the disaster that occurred in Pompeii
which destroyed the civilization completely. For example, how, why and what happened before
and after the eruption?
Targeted Group
Our targeted group was students and lecturers studying and working in University Malaya (UM).
This was decided based on the consideration that the community of UM are generally fluent in
English and are knowledgeable in our topic of discussion.
Research Method
A. Information Research (40%)
Information on the natural disaster that struck The City of Pompeii is sourced from library books
and e-books. Internet references are from official and academic sources.
B. Data Collection (60%)

Our opinions are summarized as the questions in the survey forms and distributed to the
community of University Malaya (UM). Our opinions are then rated from Strongly Agree (SA)
to Strongly Disagree (SD) based on their personal thoughts. Other opinions are collected through
in-depth interview.
Sampling Method
15 survey forms of TWO pages each were given out to be filled in UM. 9 respondents accepted
our in-depth interview which consists of FIVE questions on the destruction of Pompeii.
Data Collection Method
The primary data were collected from the community of UM. Moreover, this data was gathered
directly from the respondents through survey forms and information obtained from in-depth
interviews.
Data Analysis Method
The data analysis of this research will be mostly represented on quantitative manner. It has been
mentioned earlier that, the data will be gathered through surveys. As a result, the analysis will be
quantitative. However, there will be few qualitative opinions derived from in-depth interviews.
Survey Questions (Rated based on their scale of agreement)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

If the people of Pompeii knew about Mount Vesuvius, they would have executed an
evacuation plan sooner
The actions taken by Pliny the Elder (witness of the tragedy) in his attempt to save
the citizens of Pompeii were rational
Mount Vesuvius has been dormant for over 800 years before its eruption unto
Pompeii. This situation made the eruption more dangerous
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius is a punishment from God unto the people of
Rome
The tragedy of the City of Pompeii has in fact helped the archeological field of
today
The destruction of Pompeii has made a great impact towards neo-classical
architecture
The word Volcano did not exist until the eruption of Mount Vesuvius unto the City
of Pompeii
The people of that era have little knowledge about nature and natural disasters
The ash accumulated from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius is the key element that
preserved the City of Pompeii in its original state until it was rediscovered
Cities should not be built around volcanic areas
Every city should have a proper evacuation plan if natural disasters were to strike
As a citizen, we should always pay attention to natural phenomenon happening
around us
When nature gives out warning signals before disaster strikes, we should always act

fast
Volcanic eruptions are one of the most dangerous natural disasters in the world
This tragedy has pushed man kind to stretch the boundaries of technology and
create equipment that are able to detect early signs of natural disasters before they
strike
If this event were to happen in the modern world, the amount of casualties would
not be as much as Pompeii
This incident is a wake-up call for humanity about the force of nature
This survey has helped me understand more about the destruction of Pompeii
I am deeply interested towards what had happened in Pompeii and its impact
towards the destruction of that civilization
This survey has sparked me to know more about this historical event and I would
like to research further myself

14
15
16
17
18
19
20

Interview Questions (Recorded individually as qualitative opinions)

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

What do you know about Pompeii?

Do you know what destroyed Pompeii?
What is your opinion towards the eruption?
Why didnt the people of Pompeii escape the area before Mt. Vesuvius erupted?
Given the communication system during that time, would there be more survivors before
the eruption? What could they have done?

4.0 Data Analysis

4.1 Survey Analysis

Gender against No. of Respondant

10
9
8

No. of Respondant

7
6
5

Series 1

4
3
2
1
0
Male (M)

Female (F)
Gender

Age against No. of Respondant

10
9
8

No. of Respondant

7
6
5

Series 1

4
3
2
1
0
Below 21

21 and Above
Age

Race against No. of Respondant

8
7
6
5
No. of Respondant

Series 1

3
2
1
0
Malay (M)

Chinese (C )

Indian (I)

Race

Questions against No. of Respondant

16
14
12
Strongly Agree (SA)

10
No. of Respondant

Agree (A)

Neutral (N)

Disagree (D)
Strongly Disagree (SD)

4
2
0

Question no.

Percentage of Respondants in University Malaya (UM) Who Agree with Our Point of View

6%

7%

27%
Strongly Disagree (SD)

Disagree (D)

Neutral (N)

Agree (A)
25%

35%

4.2 Interview Analysis

Strongly Agree (SA)

Gender against No. of Respondant

6
5
4
No. of Respondant

Series 1

2
1
0
Male (M)

Female (F)
Gender

Race against No. of Respondant

6
5
4
No. of Respondant

Column1

2
1
0
Malay (M)

Chinese (C )
Race

Indian (I)

Age against No. of Respondant

2.5
2
1.5
No. of Respondant

Column1

1
0.5
0
19

20

21

22

23

Age

Awareness on the Incident Against No. of Respondant

9
8
7
6
5
Series 1

No. of Respondant 4
3
2
1
0
Yes

No

Awareness on the incident

INTERVIEW ABOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF POMPEII FOR MPU3123 TAMADUN

ISAM TAMADUN ASIA (TITAS) IN TAYLORS UNIVERSITY

This research aims to collect opinions from students on the impact of natural disasters towards
the destruction of an ancient civilization (Pompeii). Your honest response is very much
appreciated. Thank you for your cooperation.
Gender: M F

Race: M C I

Others:..

Age: 22

Nationality: Malaysian
Academic Year: 2015

Intake/Semester: 3

Faculty: -

Are you aware of the historical event that destroyed Pompeii that leads to the destruction of the
civilization of Pompeii?
Yes / No*
6. What do you know about Pompeii?
The tragic incidents happened thousand years ago
7. Do you know what destroyed Pompeii?
Volcanic eruption
8. What is your opinion towards the eruption?
It caused death to all the citizens which I think is very upset and citizens were all
innocent
9. Why didnt the people of Pompeii escape the area before Mt. Vesuvius erupted?
I believe it happened all in a sudden and they have not enough time to escape
10. Given the communication system during that time, would there be more survivors before
the eruption? What could they have done?
Definitely. They will spread the news to everyone to keep them alive

INTERVIEW ABOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF POMPEII FOR MPU3123 TAMADUN

ISAM TAMADUN ASIA (TITAS) IN TAYLORS UNIVERSITY

This research aims to collect opinions from students on the impact of natural disasters towards
the destruction of an ancient civilization (Pompeii). Your honest response is very much
appreciated. Thank you for your cooperation.
Gender: M F

Race: M C I

Others:..

Age: 21

Nationality: Malaysian
Academic Year: 2015

Intake/Semester: 2

Faculty: -

Are you aware of the historical event that destroyed Pompeii that leads to the destruction of the
civilization of Pompeii?
Yes / No*
1. What do you know about Pompeii?
Not really, but I have some knowledge about this incident because it is a history
2. Do you know what destroyed Pompeii?
Volcanic eruption
3. What is your opinion towards the eruption?
All the citizens dead
4. Why didnt the people of Pompeii escape the area before Mt. Vesuvius erupted?
They does not know what it volcano even they live nearby to the mountain
5. Given the communication system during that time, would there be more survivors before
the eruption? What could they have done?
Yes, spread the news. And at least they know what is going to happen.

INTERVIEW ABOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF POMPEII FOR MPU3123 TAMADUN

ISAM TAMADUN ASIA (TITAS) IN TAYLORS UNIVERSITY

This research aims to collect opinions from students on the impact of natural disasters towards
the destruction of an ancient civilization (Pompeii). Your honest response is very much
appreciated. Thank you for your cooperation.
Gender: M F

Race: M C I

Others:..

Age: 19

Nationality: Malaysian
Academic Year: 2015

Intake/Semester: 1

Faculty: -

Are you aware of the historical event that destroyed Pompeii that leads to the destruction of the
civilization of Pompeii?
Yes / No*
1. What do you know about Pompeii?
I know a song called Pompeii by Bastille
2. Do you know what destroyed Pompeii?
Not sure
3. What is your opinion towards the eruption?
A sad tragedy and kind of unexpected
4. Why didnt the people of Pompeii escape the area before Mt. Vesuvius erupted?
I have no idea
5. Given the communication system during that time, would there be more survivors before
the eruption? What could they have done?
I guess yes, if they were given communication system maybe they will escape at the
first place

INTERVIEW ABOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF POMPEII FOR MPU3123 TAMADUN

ISAM TAMADUN ASIA (TITAS) IN TAYLORS UNIVERSITY

This research aims to collect opinions from students on the impact of natural disasters towards
the destruction of an ancient civilization (Pompeii). Your honest response is very much
appreciated. Thank you for your cooperation.
Gender: M F

Race: M C I

Others:..

Age: 19

Nationality: Malaysian
Academic Year: 2015

Intake/Semester:1

Faculty: -

Are you aware of the historical event that destroyed Pompeii that leads to the destruction of the
civilization of Pompeii?
Yes / No*
1. What do you know about Pompeii?
Not so much about it
2. Do you know what destroyed Pompeii?
Volcanic eruption, this is common
3. What is your opinion towards the eruption?
All the people dead because of the eruption
4. Why didnt the people of Pompeii escape the area before Mt. Vesuvius erupted?
It just happened out of sudden
5. Given the communication system during that time, would there be more survivors before
the eruption? What could they have done?
It would be great if there is communication system during that era, it is because
social network always works in spreading news or information around

INTERVIEW ABOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF POMPEII FOR MPU3123 TAMADUN

ISAM TAMADUN ASIA (TITAS) IN TAYLORS UNIVERSITY

This research aims to collect opinions from students on the impact of natural disasters towards
the destruction of an ancient civilization (Pompeii). Your honest response is very much
appreciated. Thank you for your cooperation.
Gender: M F

Race: M C I

Others:..

Age: 23

Nationality: Malaysian
Academic Year: 2015

Intake/Semester: 3

Faculty: -

Are you aware of the historical event that destroyed Pompeii that leads to the destruction of the
civilization of Pompeii?
Yes / No*
1. What do you know about Pompeii?
A Roman City
2. Do you know what destroyed Pompeii?
A volcanic eruption
3. What is your opinion towards the eruption?
Deadly, tragic, sudden after 800 years
4. Why didnt the people of Pompeii escape the area before Mt. Vesuvius erupted?
It happened all of a sudden after being dormant for so many centuries
5. Given the communication system during that time, would there be more survivors before
the eruption? What could they have done?
Yes, They would have spread the words and have villages evacuated to other parts of
the land instead of being cornered at the bay

INTERVIEW ABOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF POMPEII FOR MPU3123 TAMADUN

ISAM TAMADUN ASIA (TITAS) IN TAYLORS UNIVERSITY

This research aims to collect opinions from students on the impact of natural disasters towards
the destruction of an ancient civilization (Pompeii). Your honest response is very much
appreciated. Thank you for your cooperation.
Gender: M F

Race: M C I

Others:..

Age: 22

Nationality: Malaysian
Academic Year: 2015

Intake/Semester: 4

Faculty: -

Are you aware of the historical event that destroyed Pompeii that leads to the destruction of the
civilization of Pompeii?
Yes / No*
1. What do you know about Pompeii?
It was destroyed during a volcanic eruption and is now being excavated
2. Do you know what destroyed Pompeii?
Volcanic eruption, Mountain Vesuvius
3. What is your opinion towards the eruption?
The impact was deadly as almost all of Pompeii was destroyed
4. Why didnt the people of Pompeii escape the area before Mt. Vesuvius erupted?
They did not know Mountain Vesuvius is a volcano
5. Given the communication system during that time, would there be more survivors before
the eruption? What could they have done?
They will be more survivors but the damage of the city will still be the same. The
communication system of the time, information are not being spread as fas

INTERVIEW ABOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF POMPEII FOR MPU3123 TAMADUN

ISAM TAMADUN ASIA (TITAS) IN TAYLORS UNIVERSITY

This research aims to collect opinions from students on the impact of natural disasters towards
the destruction of an ancient civilization (Pompeii). Your honest response is very much
appreciated. Thank you for your cooperation.
Gender: M F

Race: M C I

Others:..

Age: 20

Nationality: Malaysian
Academic Year: 2015

Intake/Semester: 1

Faculty: -

Are you aware of the historical event that destroyed Pompeii that leads to the destruction of the
civilization of Pompeii?
Yes / No*
1. What do you know about Pompeii?
A city in Roman
2. Do you know what destroyed Pompeii?
Eruption
3. What is your opinion towards the eruption?
Feel sad for the victims and a beautiful city destroyed
4. Why didnt the people of Pompeii escape the area before Mt. Vesuvius erupted?
It happened suddenly and I guess none of them have enough time to escape
5. Given the communication system during that time, would there be more survivors before
the eruption? What could they have done?
Yes, as they received the news, they will be more time for preparation and escape

INTERVIEW ABOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF POMPEII FOR MPU3123 TAMADUN

ISAM TAMADUN ASIA (TITAS) IN TAYLORS UNIVERSITY

This research aims to collect opinions from students on the impact of natural disasters towards
the destruction of an ancient civilization (Pompeii). Your honest response is very much
appreciated. Thank you for your cooperation.
Gender: M F

Race: M C I

Others:..

Age: 20

Nationality: Malaysian
Academic Year: 2015

Intake/Semester: 2

Faculty: -

Are you aware of the historical event that destroyed Pompeii that leads to the destruction of the
civilization of Pompeii?
Yes / No*
1. What do you know about Pompeii?
A Roman city
2. Do you know what destroyed Pompeii?
It was destroyed by a terrible volcanic eruption
3. What is your opinion towards the eruption?
It happened all of a sudden
4. Why didnt the people of Pompeii escape the area before Mt. Vesuvius erupted?
They did not know it was a valcona and they were not aware at the warning signs
5. Given the communication system during that time, would there be more survivors before
the eruption? What could they have done?
Yes, they would have known something will happen and take early precautions

INTERVIEW ABOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF POMPEII FOR MPU3123 TAMADUN

ISAM TAMADUN ASIA (TITAS) IN TAYLORS UNIVERSITY

This research aims to collect opinions from students on the impact of natural disasters towards
the destruction of an ancient civilization (Pompeii). Your honest response is very much
appreciated. Thank you for your cooperation.
Gender: M F

Race: M C I

Others:..

Age: 23

Nationality: Malaysian
Academic Year: 2015

Intake/Semester: 5

Faculty: -

Are you aware of the historical event that destroyed Pompeii that leads to the destruction of the
civilization of Pompeii?
Yes / No*
1. What do you know about Pompeii?
A city of history about natural disaster
2. Do you know what destroyed Pompeii?
It was a natural disaster, volcanic eruption
3. What is your opinion towards the eruption?
Unexpected, it was a tragedy
4. Why didnt the people of Pompeii escape the area before Mt. Vesuvius erupted?
No one know that natural disaster would have happened all of sudden and it
destroyed everything in just a second. And they do not even have the knowledge
about the volcano
5. Given the communication system during that time, would there be more survivors before
the eruption? What could they have done?
Definitely, It will be more survivors. As you know that the power of social network.
They could have move out of that place earlier before the volcanic eruption

5.0 Discussion
If the people of Pompeii knew about Mount Vesuvius, they would have executed an evacuation
plan sooner.
The eruption of Mt. Vesuvius is one of the most catastrophic volcanic eruptions in
European history. It is known for its eruption that destroyed the entire city of Pompeii. We
created a survey to ask the students of University Malaya about the destruction of Pompeii. On
the first question, we asked if the people of Pompeii knew about Mount Vesuvius, they would
have executed an evacuation plan sooner? Most people think that they would have been able to
create an evacuation plan sooner and would have been able to save themselves from the eruption.
When I asked my own group members, they also agreed that they were able to save themselves.
In my opinion, I believe that the people of Pompeii would have been able to avoid the volcanic
eruption if they knew that the volcano was active and dangerous. As the saying goes,
Knowledge is power and knowledge can save our own lives when in danger. If the people
knew how dangerous the Mt. Vesuvius is, they would not have even built a settlement there. Not
only that, people would also be prepared for a volcanic eruption by creating evacuation plans or
discovering the best ways to avoid its effects. However, I also think that if the people of Pompeii
had more knowledge about their surrounding environment, they would also been able to improve
their city by taking advantage on the environment.

Do you think that Pliney the Elders actions to save the citizens of Pompeii was rational?
This particular topic was chosen to be discussed due the significance of this historical
event where the actions of a heroic eye-witness were recorded. After collecting the opinions of
our members towards this topic, surprisingly six out of nine members felt that Pliny the Elders
attempt in rescuing the victims of the eruption was rational, although it took away his life in the
process and no one was truly rescued. All of this was recorded in the letters of Pliny the Younger
written to Cornelius Tacitus, which was discussed earlier in Kajian Literature - The Letters of
the Younger Pliny.
Based on the survey, there is a range of opinions on the rationality of Pliney the Elders
actions to save the citizens of Pompeii. 1 out of 15 disagreed to the rationality while another 1
out of 15 was neutral. In contrast, 13 out of 15 participant had agreed to the rationality of his
actions. In my opinion, the main reason why people would support his act is simple --- Empathy.
However, I would agree to disagree.
Regardless of how heroic his actions are (although I would still commend on his
bravery), one should always take into account the dangers that lie ahead when facing an
unknown situation. In addition to that, Pliny the Elder also ordered his men to venture into his
dangerous attempt, as recorded in Letter 6.16: He gave orders for the warships to be launched
and went on board himself with the intention of bringing help to many more people besides
Rectina, for this lovely stretch of coast was thickly populated., endangering the lives of all the
people on board as well.
All I can say is, this heroic action was more on the emotional note rather than rational, as
the decision was made without proper consideration due to the urgency of the situation.

Do you think Mt. Vesuvius eruption was Gods revenge on the people of Pompeii?

Referring to the survey, the students of University Malaya had a range of opinions on this
topic. More than half of the 15 students who participated in the survey strongly disagreed to the
claims of the incident in Pompeii being Gods revenge. Moreover, only one student strongly
agreed to the said claims.
Scientifically, it is fair to say that these assumptions are false as the eruption of Mt.
Vesuvius is a natural phenomenon. One of the causes of the eruption is the movement of shifting
plates within Mt. Vesuvius. Under Vesuvius, scientists have detected a tear in the plate which
allows heat from the Earths mantle layer to melt the rock of the plate building up pressure that
causes violent explosive eruptions.
In a religious point of view, there are contradicting opinions towards this assumption. It is
possible that God had wanted to purge the land of the wrongdoers as they had committed
adultery and homosexual relations. But a genocide of Pompeians is regarded as harsh, as it is
believed that God is merciful and all-loving. An action less massive could have suffice to inform
the sinners of their sins. It is highly possible that there were innocent people who lived in the
city, thus punishing them for the sins of others doesnt seem likely. In contrast to that, there are
claims that the incident was the act of God in order to rid the Earth of such sinful behaviour. His
orders against adultery were to be obeyed by all, thus disobeying His orders resulted in their
destruction.

In conclusion, it is definitely hard to confirm the eruption being Gods revenge towards
sinners as there is no proof. It all goes back to an individuals beliefs and their religious
upbringings or lack thereof.

Do you think that the excavation of Pompeii gave an impact towards the neoclassical
architecture?
The growth of architectural history derives from what we have learnt of the past
civilisation. Because of the incident in Pompeii, the city is well preserved under the ashes. Upon
excavation of the site, archeologist will recover artifacts and ruins from Pompeii, and this helps
us to learn about the neoclassical period. Referring to the survey, there is 1 strongly agree, 5
agrees, 8 neutrals, 1 disagree, and 0 strongly disagree. Thus, the overall responses are between
neutral and agree. The people think that style of architecture that played during the reign of
Pompeii will be used as rich evidence of cultural references. However, some thinks that there are
cities which are similar to Pompeii which has the 12th century influences. So it does not help that
much to influence the neoclassical period. Overall, the people think that the excavation of
Pompeii helps us to learn about the neoclassical architecture. However, it does not give a big
impact towards the topic.

As a city dweller, do you think we should be more aware of the natural phenomena
surrounding us?
Referring to the survey, the students of University Malaya had a positive feedbacks
regarding this topic, agreeing to the fact the we should be more aware of the natural phenomena
surrounding us.
Years before the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, an earthquake had struck the city. As a result,
most of the houses became uninhabitable but still, most of them did not leave the city. Many
concentrated on making repairs rather than fleeting the city. This earthquake was a key factor in
the eruption in AD 79 as the tectonic plates in the volcano had been ruptured.
Being aware of a site before settling down is highly important. By surveying the area,
proper safety measurements can be prepared in case of a worse case scenario. These safety
precautions can ensure us our lives. Nature has been there far longer than the living - its only
right to know what youll be working with before we plot a structure.
In conclusion, it is necessary to be knowledgeable of our surroundings. We are merely
temporary dwellers in natures hands.

6.0 Conclusion
After extensive research and documentation of the history behind the ancient Roman city of Pompeii,
we can conclude that the legacy left behind by this ancient civilization is not only a vital part of our
history as mankind, but a case-in-point of the sequence of life - from the growth of humanity, to the
tragedy and the memory.
Our personal opinion of the events of Pompeii stem from both fascination and heartache. Once a
blossoming community that shows the range of human capability, even without the advantage of
modern-day technology, it was wiped out in an instance. In its wake were the ruins of what has now
become not only one of the world's most famous historical landmarks, but an educational example of
the natural phenomenon that is volcanic eruptions.

7.0 Appendix