Es kommt alles wie es kommen soll

Du hast nicht zu wenig Zeit. Du hast zu viel Zeit, die du nicht nutzt.

Übung macht den Meister.﻿

Erst denken, dann handeln.

Man soll den tag nicht vor dem Abend loben.

Understand yourself and those around you.

psychology

Psychology

philosophy

Philosophy

personaldevelopment

Personal Development

mindfulness

Mindfulness

artsandculture

Society, Arts & Culture

Deutsche Zitate

Early in the book Siddhartha meets the Buddha. He finds his philosophy true but decides not to follow him as a disciple:"Enlightenment has not come to you by means of teachings! And—thus is my thought, oh exalted one,—nobody will obtain salvation by means of teachings!"Siddhartha discovered early on that enlightenment is a personal journey, that can not be short-circuited by following a prophet.

Meet the Buddha, Reject the Buddha

"You know how to talk wisely, my friend. Be aware of too much wisdom!"

Siddhartha experiences the bliss of Enlightenment early in life, but this is not the end of the book. Through the process he decided:"I want to learn from myself, want to be my student, want to get to know myself, the secret of Siddhartha."He will live like there is no tomorrow, experience extreme pleasure, find true suffering, repent, get enlightened again and so on.

Enlightenment is just the beginning

“Wisdom is not communicable. The wisdom which a wise man tries to communicate always sounds foolish... Knowledge can be communicated, but not wisdom. One can find it, live it, do wonders through it, but one cannot communicate and teach it.”Knowledge can be conveyed, but not wisdom. It can be found, it can be lived, it is possible to be carried by it, miracles can be performed with it, but it cannot be expressed in words and taught. When put into words it usually sounds like cliches or inspirational bs.

Wisdom can not be thought

Monks and holy people keep searching all their life. Siddhartha stopped searching:"When someone is searching, then it might easily happen that the only thing his eyes still see is that what he searches for, that he is unable to find anything, to let anything enter his mind, because he always thinks of nothing but the object of his search, because he has a goal, because he is obsessed by the goal. Searching means: having a goal. But finding means: being free, being open, having no goal. Striving for your goal, there are many things you don't see, which are directly in front of your eyes."

Stop Searching

At the end Siddhartha stopped searching, and began to truly listen — and his innate wisdom flowers: “It was nothing more than a readiness of the soul, a mysterious knack: the ability at every moment in the midst of life to think the thought of unity, to feel and breathe unity.”He understood one of Zen's most valuable lessons, that life has to be experienced, not understood.

Just Listen

When asked about his abilities Siddhartha answered: “I can think, I can wait, I can fast.”

Hesse's book starts like a (more serious) Monthy Python sketch, with Siddhartha living a parallel life to historical Buddha. A novel about true enlightenment and about finding yourself. 

The classic novel of a quest for knowledge that has delighted, inspired, and influenced generations of readers, writers, and thinkers—a perennial favorite for graduation gifts. Nominated as one of America’s best-loved novels by PBS’s The Great American Read Though set in a place and time far removed from the Germany of 1922, the year of the book’s debut, the novel is infused with the sensibilities of Hermann Hesse’s time, synthesizing disparate philosophies–Eastern religions, Jungian archetypes, Western individualism–into a unique vision of life as expressed through one man’s search for meaning. It is the story of the quest of Siddhartha, a wealthy Indian Brahmin who casts off a life of privilege and comfort to seek spiritual fulfillment and wisdom. On his journey, Siddhartha encounters wandering ascetics, Buddhist monks, and successful merchants, as well as a courtesan named Kamala and a simple ferryman who has attained enlightenment. Traveling among these people and experiencing life’s vital passages–love, work, friendship, and fatherhood–Siddhartha discovers that true knowledge is guided from within.

religionandspirituality

Religion & Spirituality

books

Books

meditation

Meditation

Many works, including Siddhartha (1922) and Steppenwolf (1927), of German-born Swiss writer Hermann Hesse concern the struggle of the individual to find wholeness and meaning in life; he won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1946.Other best-known works of this poet, novelist, and painter include The Glass Bead Game, which, also known as Magister Ludi, explore a search of an individual for spirituality outside society. In his time, Hesse was a popular and influential author in the German-speaking world; worldwide fame only came later. 

Hermann Hesse

Siddhartha

Don't let your happiness rely on someone else. It's you and only you who can should be able to decide your happiness. What someone does should not decrease your happiness, this does not mean you are detached emotionally or you can't react to something; it simply means what you do should make you happy and not how or what someone else does should impact your happiness.

Happiness Should Be In Your Hands

Happiness is how and what you think, how calm your mind is will determine your happiness. A fuzzy mind would not be calm, always have a clear picture. Stay away from places, things or people who makes you uncomfortable or find a way for them not to have an impact on you.

Happiness Is A State Of Mind.

Ensure what you hear about you is positive, everyday talk to yourself. Say positive things out loud for you to hear as this will positively impact how you see yourself

Talk Positive.

If something negative happens, top it with something positive. If someone said something negative about you top it with thinking something positive about you or about the person who said it

Stay Away From Negativity

Write something that made you happy and journal everyday. Look back and smile

Journal

Hear yourself laugh, this also will make you happy. Watch a sitcom or something that you find funny. Laugh out loud or sometime force a laughter and watch how it becomes a real laughter

Laugh Out Loud

habits

Habits

mentalhealth

Mental Health

loveandrelationships

Love & Relationships

Happiness made simple

A lot pf people say that young people just watch social media and don't do anything. That they are lazy and still upset. Everybody should have his own opinion but I'll tell you mine.

Young People

What do I think? In my opinion teenagers aren't lazy. I think that they just do what older generation couldn't. They can say anything they want, they can travel anywhere they want. I think they just can do more things and they have more rights.

More Rights

Of course some lazy teenagers exist. Many lazy people existed sooner, too. In my opinion some older people say that world is becoming worse and worse but every generation says that. But not everybody thinks that, of course. But I think people are still the same.

Lazy Teenagers

I don't think so. They just don't have to show they need rights. Why would they show it? Rights exist so they don't have to ask for it. Of course some young people aren't glad for it enough but they didn't experience anything like the older generation.

Teenagers Aren't Glad Enough for Their Rights

In my opinion social media isn't a problem. People can communicate with others and show them what are they doing and how they feel. If someone uses social media not too much, it's ok. Sometimes they exaggerate it but not all of them. If they don't spend too much time whatching reels on Instagram or videos on YouTube, it's ok. If they use it too much, it's a problem.

Social Media- Problem of Teenagers?

I think it's very well that young people can do anything they want and makes them feel good. Everybody can do what he wants . I'm glad that young people don't have to experience the same as older ganerations.

The Result

problemsolving

Problem Solving

Young people

"Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self judgement, self abuse and regret."

"Don't take anything personally, because nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is projection of their own reality, their own dream"

"The biggest freedom is to be able to do what you want, but if you don't have the courage to do what you want, you're not free."

"Be Impeccable With Your Word.Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love."

"Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want.”

"The only way to get rid of the need to be right is to understand that it's not important to be right,"

Find a short summary of the book - https://thetometreasure.blogspot.com/2024/07/ikigai-japanese-secret-to-long-and.html

In The Four Agreements, bestselling author don Miguel Ruiz reveals the source of self-limiting beliefs that rob us of joy and create needless suffering. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, The Four Agreements offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives to a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love. •  A New York Times bestseller for over a decade •  Translated into 50 languages worldwide   “This book by don Miguel Ruiz, simple yet so powerful, has made a tremendous difference in how I think and act in every encounter.” — Oprah Winfrey “Don Miguel Ruiz’s book is a roadmap to enlightenment and freedom.” — Deepak Chopra, Author, The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success “An inspiring book with many great lessons.” — Wayne Dyer, Author, Real Magic “In the tradition of Castaneda, Ruiz distills essential Toltec wisdom, expressing with clarity and impeccability what it means for men and women to live as peaceful warriors in the modern world.” — Dan Millman, Author, Way of the Peaceful Warrior

education

Learning & Education

Don Miguel Ruiz is an accomplished writer whose work has resonated with readers around the world. Don Miguel Ruiz has published several books that explore a range of topics, from fiction to nonfiction, and has received critical acclaim for the ability to weave compelling narratives. Don Miguel Ruiz's writing style is known for its depth and authenticity, and has earned quite a loyal following of readers.

Don Miguel Ruiz

Janet Mills is an accomplished writer whose work has resonated with readers around the world. Janet Mills has published several books that explore a range of topics, from fiction to nonfiction, and has received critical acclaim for the ability to weave compelling narratives. Janet Mills's writing style is known for its depth and authenticity, and has earned quite a loyal following of readers.

Janet Mills

The Four Agreements

In Plato's "Symposium," Apollodorus, a devoted follower of Socrates, recounts a conversation he had with Glaucon about a dinner party held in Athens over a decade earlier. Though Apollodorus wasn't present, his friend Eryximachus, who was also a student of Socrates, had attended. Eryximachus detailed the events of the symposium, where Socrates had invited him for a discussion on Love (Eros).

Apollodorus

Phaedrus, a young rhetorician argued that Love is one of the oldest and most venerable gods, revered for its profound influence. He believed Love inspires both pride and shame, emotions that drive individuals to noble deeds, such as sacrificing oneself for a loved one, which he argued is beneficial for society, especially in wartime.

The Speech Of Phaedrus

Pausanias distinguishing two types of Love:Common Love: physical and fleeting type of love, often driven by desire and is associated with temporary attractions and physical pleasure.Heavenly Love: This is the more intellectual and enduring form of love, which is focused on the mind and soul. It involves a deeper connection and is characterized by mutual respect and the pursuit of intellectual and moral development.Pausanias argues that while Common Love is important, it is Heavenly Love that should be celebrated and aspired to, as it leads to a more virtuous and fulfilling relationship.

The Speech Of Pausanais

Eryximachus, a physician, offered a medical perspective on Love. He discussed its effects on health, harmony, and balance in the body, as well as its influence on music, weather, and divine relationships. Eryximachus highlighted how Love maintains cosmic and human order.

The Speech Of Eryximachus

Aristophanes, the comic playwright, presented a mythological account. He described early humans as originally whole beings, either male or female, who were split in half by Zeus as punishment. Since then, individuals have sought their other halves through Love, explaining human attraction and the quest for companionship.

The Speech Of Aristophanes

Agathon, the host of the symposium, gave a highly praised speech celebrating Love as the youngest and most beautiful of the gods. He praised Love for its admirable qualities and its influence on all good things. However, his speech was more focused on the attributes of Love rather than a deep philosophical analysis.

The Speech Of Agathon

Socrates then engaged Agathon in a philosophical dialogue. Socrates challenged Agathon’s views by suggesting that Love cannot be a god because it is defined by its need for what it lacks.

Socrates' Objection

Socrates then presented Diotima’s views. According to Diotima, a learned woman, Love is not a deity but a daimon, a spirit that exists between humans and gods.Diotima explained that Love’s role is to give birth to beauty in both the mind and the body. True beauty, she argued, is eternal and unchanging. Diotima outlined a "ladder of ascent" in which the lover progresses from an appreciation of individual bodies to a broader understanding of universal beauty, culminating in the vision of the eternal Good.

The Speech Of Socrates

For wisdom is a most beautiful thing, and Love is of the beautiful; therefore, Love is also a philosopher or lover of wisdom, and being a lover of wisdom is in a mean between the wise and the ignorant.

Alcibiades, a prominent politician, arrived drunk and praised Socrates. He admired Socrates’ self-discipline and intellectual focus but found his lifestyle peculiar and difficult to emulate. Alcibiades’ praise, despite his inebriation, underscored Socrates’ remarkable qualities.

The Speech Of Alcibiades

The symposium eventually descended into chaos because of the effect of excessive drinking. The following morning, Socrates had brief conversations with Agathon and Aristophanes before retreating to live alone.

Ending

A fascinating discussion on sex, gender, and human instincts by one of history’s greatest philosophers.   In the course of a lively drinking party, a group of Athenian intellectuals exchange views on desire. From their conversation emerges a series of subtle reflections on gender roles, sex in society, and basic human instincts. The debate precedes one great after another: Agathon, Aristodemus, Eryximachus, Pausanias, Aristophanes, and Socrates—all describing love in many possible permutations and combinations. The dialogue culminates in a radical challenge to conventional views by Plato’s mentor, Socrates, who advocates transcendence through spiritual love. The Symposium is a deft interweaving of different viewpoints and ideas about the nature of love.

history

History

politics

Politics

Plato

Symposium

1.	The Late Republic Crisis	2.	The Gracchi Brothers	3.	The Rise of Populism	4.	Military Reforms	5.	Social and Economic Inequality	6.	The Jugurthine War	7.	The Rise of Marius	8.	The Social War	9.	The Rise of Sulla	10.	Sulla’s Reforms and Dictatorship	11.	Political Corruption and Violence	12.	The Prelude to Civil War	13.	Lessons from History

Topics You’ll Master Today

The story of the late Roman Republic is one of resilience in the face of crisis, but also of the dangers of unchecked ambition.

Mike Duncan opens by detailing the complex socio-political landscape of Rome during the Late Republic. He explains how economic disparity, political corruption, and the erosion of traditional values contributed to a period of instability and conflict. “Rome in the late Republic was a society teetering on the brink, struggling with internal discord and the pressures of expansion.”

The Late Republic Crisis

The Gracchi brothers, Tiberius and Gaius, are central figures in the early stages of the Republic’s crisis. Duncan explores their reform efforts aimed at addressing land distribution and wealth inequality, and how their eventual murders signaled the violent turn in Roman politics. “The Gracchi brothers’ attempts to reform Rome were met with fierce resistance, highlighting the entrenched power of the elite.”

The Gracchi Brothers

The emergence of populist leaders who sought to appeal directly to the masses marked a significant shift. Duncan discusses how these leaders, including figures like Gaius Marius, leveraged public discontent to gain political power, bypassing traditional senatorial authority. “Populism in Rome was both a symptom and a cause of the Republic’s unraveling, as leaders exploited popular unrest for personal gain.”

The Rise of Populism

Military reforms under Gaius Marius were transformative but also destabilizing. Duncan explains how Marius’ changes, including the recruitment of landless citizens and the promise of land rewards, altered the loyalty of soldiers from the state to their generals. “Marius’ reforms created armies more loyal to their generals than to Rome itself, setting a dangerous precedent.”

Military Reforms

The Gracchi brothers’ fate was a harbinger of the violence that would come to define Roman politics.

Duncan delves into the growing divide between Rome’s wealthy elite and its impoverished masses. He highlights how economic policies and exploitation by the rich exacerbated social tensions, contributing to the Republic’s instability. “The widening gap between rich and poor fueled resentment and unrest, undermining the foundations of the Republic.”

Social & Economic Inequality

The Jugurthine War exposed deep-seated corruption within the Roman political and military systems. Duncan narrates the story of how King Jugurtha of Numidia used bribery and manipulation to thwart Roman efforts, illustrating the moral decay of Rome’s leadership. “Jugurtha’s ability to buy Roman officials showcased the pervasive corruption that plagued the Republic.”

The Jugurthine War

Gaius Marius’ rise to power was marked by military prowess and political maneuvering. Duncan explores how Marius capitalized on his military successes to challenge the traditional aristocracy, becoming a symbol of both hope and fear. “Marius embodied the potential for meritocratic advancement, but also the dangers of military dominance in politics.”

The Rise of Marius

The Social War (91-88 BC) was a critical conflict between Rome and its Italian allies who demanded citizenship and equal rights. Duncan details the causes, key battles, and consequences of this war, emphasizing its role in weakening the Republic. “The Social War highlighted the Republic’s failure to integrate its allies, leading to widespread bloodshed and political upheaval.”

The Social War

Lucius Cornelius Sulla’s rise was characterized by ruthless ambition and unprecedented violence. Duncan examines Sulla’s march on Rome, his proscriptions, and his eventual dictatorship, which set dangerous precedents for future leaders. “Sulla’s reign of terror demonstrated the lengths to which individuals would go to seize and maintain power.”

The Rise of Sulla

Sulla’s reforms aimed to restore senatorial authority and curb populist influences. Duncan analyzes these measures, their implementation, and their ultimate failure to stabilize the Republic in the long term. “Sulla’s attempts to rewind the clock to a more stable era were undone by the very forces of change he sought to suppress.”

Sulla’s Reforms & Dictatorship

The political culture of the late Republic became increasingly violent and corrupt. Duncan provides vivid accounts of electoral bribery, assassinations, and the use of mob violence to achieve political ends. “The Republic’s descent into chaos was marked by the normalization of corruption and brutality in political life.”

Political Corruption & Violence

Duncan sets the stage for the imminent civil wars by examining the rivalries and conflicts that followed Sulla’s death. He discusses the roles of key figures like Pompey, Crassus, and Julius Caesar in escalating tensions. “The power struggles that followed Sulla’s death paved the way for the bloody conflicts that would end the Republic.”

The Prelude To Civil War

The book concludes with reflections on the lessons modern societies can learn from the Republic’s fall. Duncan emphasizes the importance of addressing inequality, maintaining the integrity of institutions, and avoiding the allure of populist solutions to complex problems. “The storm before the fall of the Roman Republic serves as a cautionary tale for all ages, reminding us of the fragility of democratic institutions.”

Lessons From History

Sulla’s dictatorship was a pivotal moment, revealing the depths of Rome’s internal divisions and the lengths to which power could corrupt.

Discover the turbulent years leading to the fall of the Roman Republic in Mike Duncan’s “The Storm Before the Storm,” where ambition, reform, and violence shaped the fate of a civilization.

From the creator of the award-winning podcast series The History of Rome and Revolutions comes the "remarkably engaging" (Washington Post) history of the bloody battles, political machinations, and human drama that set the stage for the fall of the Roman Republic. The Roman Republic was one of the most remarkable achievements in the history of civilization. Beginning as a small city-state in central Italy, Rome gradually expanded into a wider world filled with petty tyrants, barbarian chieftains, and despotic kings. Through the centuries, Rome's model of cooperative and participatory government remained remarkably durable and unmatched in the history of the ancient world. In 146 BC, Rome finally emerged as the strongest power in the Mediterranean. But the very success of the Republic proved to be its undoing. The republican system was unable to cope with the vast empire Rome now ruled: rising economic inequality disrupted traditional ways of life, endemic social and ethnic prejudice led to clashes over citizenship and voting rights, and rampant corruption and ruthless ambition sparked violent political clashes that cracked the once indestructible foundations of the Republic. Chronicling the years 146-78 BC, The Storm Before the Storm dives headlong into the first generation to face this treacherous new political environment. Abandoning the ancient principles of their forbearers, men like Marius, Sulla, and the Gracchi brothers set dangerous new precedents that would start the Republic on the road to destruction and provide a stark warning about what can happen to a civilization that has lost its way.

Mike Duncan

The Storm Before the Storm

1.	The Eruption of Vesuvius	2.	Rediscovery and Excavation	3.	Daily Life in Pompeii	4.	The Social Structure	5.	Housing and Architecture	6.	Commerce and Economy	7.	Art and Culture	8.	Religion and Rituals	9.	Public Entertainment	10.	Health and Medicine	11.	Water and Sanitation	12.	The Role of Women	13.	The Legacy of Pompeii

Pompeii is a unique snapshot of Roman life, frozen in a moment of catastrophe.

Mary Beard begins with the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD that buried Pompeii. She describes the timeline of the eruption, the impact on the city, and the immediate aftermath. “The eruption of Vesuvius was a sudden and devastating event that preserved a moment in time.”

The Eruption of Vesuvius

The rediscovery of Pompeii in the 18th century sparked intense interest in archaeology. Beard discusses the history of the excavations, the methods used, and the challenges faced in unearthing the city. “Pompeii’s rediscovery opened a window into the ancient world, captivating generations of scholars and the public.”

Rediscovery & Excavation

Beard paints a vivid picture of daily life in Pompeii, from the bustling markets to quiet domestic moments. She explores the routines and activities that defined everyday existence in the city. “Pompeii offers an unparalleled glimpse into the ordinary lives of its inhabitants.”

Daily Life in Pompei

Pompeii’s society was complex and stratified. Beard examines the roles and statuses of different social classes, including the elite, the freedmen, and the slaves, and how these dynamics shaped the city. “Social hierarchy in Pompeii was evident in every aspect of life, from housing to public spaces.”

The Social Structure

The architecture of Pompeii, from grand villas to modest homes, reveals much about its residents. Beard discusses the design, decoration, and function of these spaces, highlighting their significance in understanding Roman domestic life. “The homes of Pompeii reflect a society that valued both privacy and social display.”

Housing & Structure

Trade and commerce were vital to Pompeii’s economy. Beard explores the marketplaces, shops, and businesses that thrived in the city, as well as the goods traded and the economic interactions with the wider Roman world. “Pompeii was a bustling economic hub, with commerce woven into the fabric of daily life.”

Commerce & Economy

The ruins of Pompeii tell stories of everyday lives, aspirations, and the abrupt end brought by Vesuvius.

Pompeii was rich in art and cultural expression. Beard delves into the frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures that adorned the city, and the cultural activities that defined its public and private life. “Art in Pompeii was not just decorative but a vital part of cultural identity and expression.”

Art & Culture

Religion permeated every aspect of life in Pompeii. Beard examines the temples, shrines, and religious practices, exploring the importance of both public and private worship in the city’s social fabric. “Religious life in Pompeii was a blend of traditional Roman practices and local customs.”

Religion & Rituals

Entertainment was a cornerstone of Pompeian society. Beard highlights the amphitheaters, theaters, and public baths that provided venues for leisure and socialization, reflecting the city’s vibrant public life. “Public entertainment in Pompeii was a reflection of the city’s communal spirit and cultural priorities.”

Public Entertainment

Health and medical practices in Pompeii were a mix of science and superstition. Beard discusses the medical knowledge of the time, common ailments, and the role of physicians and healers. “Pompeian health practices offer insight into the medical understanding and challenges of ancient Rome.”

Health & Medicine

Pompeii had advanced water and sanitation systems for its time. Beard examines the aqueducts, fountains, and sewage systems that ensured the city’s hygiene and public health. “The infrastructure of Pompeii was a testament to Roman engineering and urban planning.”

Water & Sanitation

Women in Pompeii played varied and vital roles. Beard explores their participation in family, economic, and religious life, highlighting both the freedoms and restrictions they experienced. “Women in Pompeii navigated a complex landscape of societal expectations and opportunities.”

The Role of Women

The preservation of Pompeii offers a unique legacy for historical and archaeological study. Beard reflects on what Pompeii has taught us about Roman life, its influence on modern culture, and the ongoing efforts to preserve the site. “Pompeii’s legacy is a living connection to the past, continuously informing and inspiring.”

The Legacy of Pompei

Understanding Pompeii is to understand the resilience and complexity of Roman urban society.

Uncover the vibrant life and sudden demise of an ancient city in Mary Beard’s “Pompeii,” where everyday life, social structures, and cultural riches come to light

WINNER OF THE WOLFSON HISTORY PRIZE 2008 'The world's most controversial classicist debunks our movie-style myths about the Roman town with meticulous scholarship and propulsive energy' Laura Silverman, Daily Mail The ruins of Pompeii, buried by an explosion of Vesuvius in 79 CE, offer the best evidence we have of everyday life in the Roman empire. This remarkable book rises to the challenge of making sense of those remains, as well as exploding many myths: the very date of the eruption, probably a few months later than usually thought; or the hygiene of the baths which must have been hotbeds of germs; or the legendary number of brothels, most likely only one; or the massive death count, maybe less than ten per cent of the population. An extraordinary and involving portrait of an ancient town, its life and its continuing re-discovery, by Britain's favourite classicist.

Mary Beard

Pompeii

<ol><li>The Founding of Rome</li></ol>	2.	The Republic’s Rise	3.	The Role of the Senate	4.	The Power of the People	5.	The Social Structure	6.	The Punic Wars	7.	The Expansion of Rome	8.	The Decline of the Republic	9.	The Rise of Emperors	10.	Daily Life in Rome	11.	Religion and Mythology	12.	The Legacy of Rome	13.	The Fall of Rome

Topics You Will Master Today

Rome’s history is a tale of remarkable resilience and adaptability, a city that continually reinvented itself.

Mary Beard begins by exploring the mythical origins of Rome, founded by Romulus and Remus. She delves into how these legends shaped the city’s identity and set the stage for Rome’s future grandeur. “The story of Romulus and Remus is as much about what Romans wanted to believe about themselves as about what actually happened.”

The Founding of Rome

The establishment of the Roman Republic marked a shift from monarchy to a complex system of checks and balances. Beard discusses how the Republic’s institutions and values, such as the emphasis on civic duty and the rule of law, laid the groundwork for Rome’s expansion. “The Republic was built on a foundation of shared power and collective decision-making.”

The Republic’s Rise

The Senate was the heart of Roman political life. Beard explains its functions, influence, and how it maintained stability and order. She also highlights the conflicts and power struggles within the Senate that shaped Roman policies and governance. “The Senate was both a stabilizing force and a battleground for power and influence.”

The Role of the Senate

Despite the Senate’s dominance, the Roman people had significant power. Beard explores the role of the assemblies, tribunes, and public opinion in shaping Roman politics and society. “The voice of the people was a critical, if sometimes overlooked, force in Roman governance.”

The Power of the People

Rome’s social hierarchy was complex and rigid. Beard examines the roles and statuses of different social classes, from the patricians and plebeians to slaves and freedmen, and how these dynamics influenced Roman life and politics. “Social status in Rome dictated not just one’s privileges but also one’s responsibilities.”

The Punic Wars were pivotal in Rome’s rise to dominance. Beard details the conflicts with Carthage, focusing on key figures like Hannibal and Scipio Africanus, and how these wars transformed Rome into a Mediterranean powerhouse. “The Punic Wars were as much about defining Rome’s identity as about expanding its territory.”

The Punic Wars

Rome’s territorial expansion was relentless and strategic. Beard discusses the methods of conquest, integration of new territories, and the impact of expansion on Roman culture and society. “Expansion brought wealth, diversity, and challenges, reshaping Rome at every turn.”

The Expansion of Rome

Explore the rise, reign, and legacy of Rome in Mary Beard’s “SPQR,” where the city’s history is brought to life through its legends, politics, and enduring influence.

New York Times Bestseller A New York Times Notable Book Named one of the Best Books of the Year by the Wall Street Journal, the Economist, Foreign Affairs, and Kirkus Reviews Finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award (Nonfiction) Shortlisted for the Cundill Prize in Historical Literature Finalist for the Los Angeles Times Book Prize (History) A San Francisco Chronicle Holiday Gift Guide Selection A New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice Selection A sweeping, "magisterial" history of the Roman Empire from one of our foremost classicists shows why Rome remains "relevant to people many centuries later" (Atlantic).   In SPQR, an instant classic, Mary Beard narrates the history of Rome "with passion and without technical jargon" and demonstrates how "a slightly shabby Iron Age village" rose to become the "undisputed hegemon of the Mediterranean" (Wall Street Journal). Hailed by critics as animating "the grand sweep and the intimate details that bring the distant past vividly to life" (Economist) in a way that makes "your hair stand on end" (Christian Science Monitor) and spanning nearly a thousand years of history, this "highly informative, highly readable" (Dallas Morning News) work examines not just how we think of ancient Rome but challenges the comfortable historical perspectives that have existed for centuries. With its nuanced attention to class, democratic struggles, and the lives of entire groups of people omitted from the historical narrative for centuries, SPQR will to shape our view of Roman history for decades to come.

SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome

Find 100+ Philosophy Ideas, Insights & Facts - Curated from popular Videos, Podcasts, Books & Articles - Genuine Insights from like-minded Users like You!

Deutsche Zitate

Siddhartha

Happiness made simple

Young people

The Four Agreements

Symposium

The Storm Before the Storm

Pompeii

SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome

Finding Inspiration in Nature: The Genius Method Inspired by Steve Jobs and Bill Gates

It's time to
Read like a Pro.

Deutsche Zitate

Siddhartha

Happiness made simple

Young people

The Four Agreements

Symposium

The Storm Before the Storm

Pompeii

SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome

Finding Inspiration in Nature: The Genius Method Inspired by Steve Jobs and Bill Gates

It's time to Read like a Pro.

It's time to
Read like a Pro.