The Roman Empire

The Roman Empire

Introduction

To understand the decline of the Roman Imperial system, it is important to note that it was a slow decline occurring over a period of four centuries that led to its failure. To be able to evaluate and understand the roman social system, and the after math of its collapse, it is vitally important to study and understand the process under the light of literature. Assessments of the universal history of Rome have long been caught up in the debate over its value or genre. This approach fails to appreciate the work as a cultural document demonstrating the decisive generation (or reproduction) of imperial ideology by typical Roman elites. Numerous writings provide a unique insight into the intersection between a competitive literary culture in elite circles and political power that led to the decline of Rome.

Role of Caesar

A special role in history reserves to the figure of Caesar. According to modern historians is very plausible, although not stated openly in the course of the work, the future dictator of Rome, would have more hope in the success of the conspiracy diatribe, as he had done in the first conspiracy even though his name is never mentioned. Sallut does not miss any opportunity to underline the concern about the legality of Caesar (Tom,2005, pp.265). Caesar described by Sallust does not appear as revolutionary opposition to the senatorial party would have nothing to do with the Catiline program (Mellor, 1999). On the contrary, Caesar appears as the faithful guardian of classic Rome. Authors; therefore, put Cato on a level of younger, extremely humble man, as his famous ancestor who carries the name. Based on similar premises, the tradition and the ancient virtue of the Roman people, Cato come to opposite conclusions: ask and supports the death penalty for the conspirators.

Caesar against Cato

One of the most important chapters of the book, 54, dedicates to the discussion between Caesar and Cato. When the historian wrote the paper, both were tragically killed by other conspirators Caesar, Cato committed suicide. Both have personal significance to the writer. Sallust compares to the famous debate in the Senate, taking the opportunity to extol the qualities of this magnitude including the generosity, altruism and mercy of Caesar. Sallust emphasizes Cato's "mercy" austerity, rigor, moderate and unyielding firmness (Mellor,1999, pp.13). These are two undeniable examples of opposite virtues, but complementary and important to a Roman politician. A fundamental aspect is that according to Sallust, both an attitude and valor are essential for the survival of the republic. If Caesar is the one who is able to give glory to the State, Cato appears as the repository of the values of ancient tradition to which Sallust does not want to resign. In chapter 54 Sallut says (Kelly, 2006):

“Therefore, by birth, by age, by eloquence, he was more or less equal, as the greatness of his soul and his glory, but different in other things: Caesar was highly regarded by generosity and generosity; Cato for his integrity of ...