"All history is biography," said Emerson, and he's certainly right in thinking that an understanding of the lives of individual men and women is essential to history. Fortunately for us, many ancient writers shared Emerson's idea of the importance of biography, and they've left us many fascinating accounts of important Roman leaders. Among the most interesting biographies are those contained in Plutarch's "Lives of the Noble Greeks and Romans." Please read one of the following selections from Plutarch. Cite an incident or sentiment that seems to you particular important in understanding Roman character/values/history, and explain why you chose this particular passage/event.Abridged versions:
Tiberius Gracchus, Gaius Gracchus, Fabius Maximus, Cato the Elder, Camillus
Unabridged versions:
Tiberius Gracchus, Gaius Gracchus, Fabius Maximus, Cato the Elder, Camillus
Right in the beginning the story states that Fabius was a man of great courage and strength. This man was consul five times and lead many victories for Rome. During the time of Fabius a man named Hannibal was invading parts of the Roman empire and the Roman people feared for their lives for Hannibal was getting closer and closer into Roman land. Hannibal won many battles against Rome but Fabius used his wise words to convince the Roman people that heaven was on their side and that they needed to please the gods. The Romans value success and value victory quickly. The Roman people called Fabius a coward for taking so long in trying to defeat Hannibal's army. With all of the losses that Fabius accrued during his reign he was ultimately called a coward and an incompetent general. Roman's value strength and confidence in the battlefield and they value winning battles instead of losing them. I chose this particular passage because it shows us how the Romans valued the people who were in charge. In Fabius' case he was not valued at all. His character was the opposite of what the Romans wanted to be.
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