The Rest Is History 1. Greatness
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Nov 2, 2020 The hosts explore what it means to be 'great' throughout history. They debate figures from Nero to Churchill, contrasting ancient ideals of power with modern views emphasizing morality. The discussion touches on contemporary leaders like Trump and Putin, and the complexities of political legacy. They also examine cultural differences in the perception of greatness, such as Western versus Chinese ideologies. Throughout, the conversation challenges the notion of greatness and its implications in today's society.
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Origin of Greatness
- The concept of "greatness" originated in ancient Persia with the title "Great King".
- This title was later adopted by Alexander the Great after conquering Persia, and then by the Romans.
Greatness and Monarchy
- Most historical figures labeled "great" are monarchs and state-builders, particularly from the Victorian era.
- This reflects a Victorian focus on national roots and powerful figures.
Greatness in Republics
- Republics and democracies have difficulty with the "great" label due to inherent egalitarianism.
- This explains the lack of "George the Great" or "Abraham the Great".