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History Extra podcast

Caesar | 3. Master of his fate

Dec 16, 2023
26:32

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Caesar's portrait on a Roman coin aimed to distance him from the ideals of the Roman Republic by adopting a Hellenistic style and conveying authority and experience.
  • Caesar's unwavering determination and use of innovative strategies led to his victory in battles and the weakening of his opponents.

Deep dives

Caesar's Coin Revolution

Caesar's portrait on a Roman coin from 44 BC shocked many of his contemporaries, as it was the first time a living person was depicted on the obverse of a Roman coin. This departure from Roman iconography mirrored the style of Hellenistic kings and aimed to distance Caesar from the ideals of the Roman Republic. The realistic portrayal of Caesar on the coin, with imperfections visible, may have conveyed notions of authority and experience rather than youthful heroism.

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