Because morphine is regularly prescribed in hospices for relief of pain and suffering, physicians and nurses come to rely on its power to relieve pain and promote a death without suffering. A death with symptoms well-managed is one important aspect of what is called a death with dignity..
The Sigillaria - held on the 23 December - was a day of present-giving in ancient Rome. During the Saturnalia, wax tapers and torches were lit - in a similar way to our advent candles. Over-eating, gambling, drinking, singing and sharing witty tales were all part of Saturnalia celebrations.
Saturnalia underwent a major reform in 217 BC, after the Battle of Lake Trasimene, when the Romans suffered one of their most crushing defeats by Carthage during the Second Punic War. Until that time, they had celebrated the holiday according to Roman custom (more Romano).