Final answer:
The pallium or lorum was a cloak-like garment favored in Greek culture for its ease and comfort, adopted by some Romans as a practical alternative to the formal toga. Tertullian, an early Christian writer, preferred the pallium over the toga for its simplicity and the freedom of movement it offered.
Step-by-step explanation:
A pallium, also known as a lorum, was a type of cloak-like garment worn in ancient times. It was especially popular in Greek culture as a simpler and more comfortable alternative to the Roman toga. The pallium was a versatile piece of cloth that could be draped over the shoulders and wrapped around the body, offering ease of movement and convenience compared to the cumbersome and formal toga worn by citizens of Rome to signify their status and identity. Tertullian, an early Christian author, compared the two garments in his writings to express his preference for the pallium's practicality over the toga's discomfort.
In Roman society, the toga was synonymous with Romanness, a symbol of Roman citizenship and social standing. However, Tertullian criticized the toga, bringing attention to its impracticality and the relief one feels upon taking it off. He preferred the comfort and simplicity of the pallium, which required no time-consuming effort to dress except to drape it loosely over oneself.
Famous Romans, including Lucius Sulla and Lucius Scipio, have been depicted wearing the pallium, showing that this Greek garment was also adopted by some Roman citizens, particularly during their time in Greek territories or for the sake of comfort and luxury.