Since I studied ancient history for a few years, this is one of the major points that I really enjoyed being portrayed. The fact that most patrician men, equites, and land owners were off to war, plundering and building their wealth during "campaign season", the women were left behind to raise the heirs, to continue the business, and keep the family stable and, if possible, in a better, more powerful position when the husband came home. The women at home at the time were more dangerous than the men.
Another good point....HBO's Rome shows the unadulterated sin and debauchery of Roman life during the Republican times....it is a powerful, rich city whose every character have not been blessed with the grace of Christ (who will be born in 36 years)...about 11 B.C.