Römische Geschichte — Buch 5
Römische Geschichte — Buch 5, written by Theodor Mommsen in the late 19th century, provides a detailed historical account of the military monarchy's foundation in ancient Rome. It examines the political dynamics and key figures following Sulla's death, including Marcus Lepidus, Quintus Sertorius, Gnaeus Pompeius, and Marcus Crassus. The narrative highlights the fragmented opposition to Sulla's oligarchy and the ensuing power struggles that shaped Rome's future, making it a significant work for understanding this tumultuous period in Roman history.
About Römische Geschichte — Buch 5
Chapter Summaries
- 1
- After Sulla's death in 676 (78), the restored oligarchy faces immediate challenges from Marcus Lepidus's revolt in Italy and Sertorius's continued resistance in Spain. Lepidus's incompetent leadership leads to his defeat, while Sertorius proves a formidable opponent until his assassination by Perpenna.
- 2
- The Sullan government's handling of external threats reveals its fundamental weaknesses. Failed campaigns against Thracian tribes, ineffective measures against piracy, the Spartacus slave rebellion, and the renewal of war with Mithradates demonstrate the oligarchy's incompetence in basic governmental functions.
Key Themes
- Political Decay and Institutional Failure
- Mommsen portrays the Sullan restoration as fundamentally flawed, with an oligarchy too corrupt and incompetent to govern effectively. The repeated crises demonstrate the system's inability to address basic governmental functions.
- Individual Excellence vs. Systemic Corruption
- Exceptional individuals like Sertorius, Lucullus, and Spartacus achieve remarkable feats despite operating within or against a decaying system. Their ultimate failures highlight how personal virtue cannot overcome institutional rot.
- East vs. West Cultural Conflict
- The wars with Mithradates and Tigranes represent a clash between Roman republican values and oriental despotism. The eastern kings embody autocratic excess while Rome struggles to maintain its republican character.
Characters
- Lucius Cornelius Sulla(major)
- The deceased dictator whose restored oligarchy forms the foundation of the political system. His death in 676 (78) creates a power vacuum that various factions attempt to fill.
- Marcus Aemilius Lepidus(antagonist)
- Consul of 676 (78) who leads the first major challenge to the Sullan restoration. A former Sullan supporter who turns to the popular party for personal reasons after facing corruption charges.
- Quintus Sertorius(protagonist)
- The brilliant Roman general leading the democratic resistance in Spain. Born in Nursia, he combines exceptional military and political talent with genuine concern for provincial welfare.
- Gnaeus Pompeius (Pompey)(major)
- The young general who rose to prominence under Sulla. Despite military success, he lacks political acumen and genuine leadership qualities, being described as mediocre despite his reputation.
- Marcus Licinius Crassus(major)
- The wealthy financier and general who defeats Spartacus. Represents the power of money in politics and harbors ambitions for supreme power through his vast financial resources.
- Spartacus(protagonist)
- The Thracian gladiator who leads the great slave rebellion. Portrayed as a noble and capable leader whose strategic brilliance nearly brings Rome to its knees.
