CLA233H5 Study Guide - Final Guide: Vulgus, Tribune, Laurentum
Document Summary
Main source of wealth came from land ownership and sale of products from agricultural land. Wealthy romans believed themselves to be superior to the poor in every way. Similarly, the main opposition for augustus"s rule came from the threat he posed to aristocracy. Cicero and others believe that aristocracy was the best form of government if they were the aristocrats. Governing the state by excellence and virtue is the best-case scenario: virtus (l) excellence and virtue. Kings do not follow the rules they themselves impose on the public and are not a model of what they preach. The rashness and ignorance of the masses make them unsuitable leaders. Aristocracy/oligarchy is the middle ground between democracy and monarchy: oligoi (g) a few men, oligarchy rule by a few. People should be thankful that they are free of having to think for themselves. Not all men were created equal so the better men get to be in positions of power.
