The long-lived Roman Empire was a majestic power of its time; contributing to the many spheres of influences such as poetry, art, architecture and law. ... As an example, during the time of the Roman Republic two consuls (the highest seat of political power) were elected by the people every year. ... This was not desirable at a time during the Roman Empire, for the borders of Rome were surrounded by various enemies who wanted to destroy the glory of Rome. ... " The earthly city referred to, then, is the City of Man; which was said to be filled of poverty-stricken power, whose leaders star...

• Word Count: 3044
• Approx Pages: 12
• Grade Level: High School

Cassius even made a largess of Sicilian grain to the plebs, but was, in the end, accused of attempting to gain too much power. ... Cassius tries to placate the plebs and gain power, but is opposed by the senate. ... Gracchus was the foremost Populares tribune at the time, and was killed because he sought to take power away from the opposing Optimates. ... Appian relates numerous deaths throughout his Civil Wars, and this can be seen in Livy as the constant abuses of the tribunes, leading to the ultimate loss of plebeian power in the story of the decemvirs. On the issue of absolute power, Livy...

• Word Count: 2928
• Approx Pages: 12
• Grade Level: Undergraduate