The Rise of Rome - A Modern Take

Many of the reforms that Caesar implemented into Roman society are current aspects of society that we all benefit from today. I would argue that Caesar set the standard for these reforms and these reforms served as a model for future civilizations. Caesar conducted the census to quantify all the resources in Rome. Similar to ancient Rome, we as a society emphasize the participation and analyzation of our census to understand the distribution or resources. Caesar also relieved many debts of Roman citizens, a controversial topic in today’s society. These reforms are similar to those of the Gracchi in the curtailing of luxury and redistribution of wealth. It seems no coincidence that both liberal ideas of the Gracchi and Caesar led to their assassination. I’m glad that this aspect has not been adapted in today’s society

When reading the background of Cornelia, I was fascinated by her overall character and her evolution. Cornelia was born extremely privileged, into a famous Roman family. Her father was the famous general Scipio Africanus who successfully destroyed Carthage and her mother was his wife, Aemilia. Her reputation was further strengthen by her betrothal to Tiberius Gracchus.  In the time period that she lived in, I was surprised that she was not concerned with luxurious items or material goods until later in her life. There was even mentioning of her bitching out another woman explaining that her jewels were her children. Quite a woman. Rather, she was extremely devoted to her children, providing a pinical role model for Roman mothers to follow. I find it fascinating that although she is deemed as one of the best mothers you could be, her children still suffered inevitable fates, contrary to the belief that if you are a good mother, your children will end up okay. Clearly, we can see the tragic consequences facing all Roman’s in this time period and the years prior. Families suffering tragedies at the hands of foreign and domestic unrest.