Auctoritas and the Aristocracy of the Roman Republic Flashcards
1
Q
Demonstrate the flaws in Polybius’ description of the “Roman constitution.”
A
- describes roman constitution as a mixed government= monarchy+ aristocracy+ democracy
- to simplistic
- in reality= heavy focus on aristocracy and the power of the which limited the power of the peope
2
Q
Define auctoritas, explain it and its expression by the Roman aristocracy, and
relate it to Roman imperialism.
A
- means soft power
- based on respect and trust
- was achieved through the Service-Honor Cycle= competing for honor through public services/ deeds
- it motivated imperialism by driving aristocrats to achieve military achievements and conquests. This equaled triumph which was a public display of success.