Julius Caesar returns to Rome with a determination to make his name known and proves his prowess as an orator with the help of Marcus Tullius Cicero. The podcast explores the significance of luck in Roman warfare, the risky career of a prominent figure who took out enormous loans for campaigns, the repercussions of debt in ancient Rome, and the attachment that Roman generals feel to Rome despite their time fighting abroad. The chapter on Cicero introduces the great orator and discusses his goals and ambitions compared to Caesar.
Caesar's reputation for luck made him popular among Roman soldiers.
Patronage played a significant role in Roman politics and gaining clients was essential for political success.
Deep dives
Caesar's decision not to join Marcus Lepidus' revolt
When approached by Marcus Lepidus to join a revolt against the Sulla government, Caesar weighed his options and decided it was not worth the gamble. The revolt proceeded without Caesar's involvement and ultimately failed.
Caesar's reputation for luck and the significance of luck in Roman society
Caesar was known for his luck, which was not viewed as mere chance by the Romans. They believed luck was a sign of being blessed by the gods. Caesar's reputation for luck made him popular among Roman soldiers, who wanted to follow a successful and lucky leader.
Caesar's massive borrowing and gambling for political success
Caesar borrowed enormous sums of money to finance his political campaigns, a common practice among Roman politicians. He took on massive debts, betting on his own success in gaining higher positions in government. Despite skepticism from some, Caesar's willingness to take huge risks paid off for him.
The role of patronage in Roman society and Caesar becoming a pontiff
In Roman society, patrons would support and assist their clients in various ways, while clients would support and vote for their patrons. Caesar's appointment as a pontiff, a high-ranking priestly role, marked him as an up-and-coming politician with potential influence and power. Patronage played a significant role in Roman politics and gaining clients was essential for political success.
Julius Caesar returns to Rome with a splash. Determined to make his name known he enters the law courts to prove his prowess as an orator. (Enter Marcus Tullius Cicero).
Correction: It was Livy that characterized Rome as conquering the world in self-defense.
Correction: Arpinum is Southeast of Rome
Correction: Cicero was aided by his grateful Sicilian clients when he was Aedile. Not having the money to throw elaborate games, he was instead able to provide food sent from Sicily to the people of Rome.
Venmo
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