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
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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.
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