Sulla and Ceasar

Beth Ludwick 589-16-7528 2/17/01 EUH3411/Turner Contrast of Plutarch’s Lives of Sulla and Caesar An interesting, but dramatic understanding of roman history can be reached by analyzing the differences in the Lives of Sulla and Caesar, specifically the effect and uses of money during their rise to power. Plutarch’s writings give insight on not only those great men, but on Plutarch himself. The use of money, either for bribery, compensation of soldiers, or …

…be made from them, as long as they are not viewed as purely historical accounts. His descriptions of money use by Sulla and Caesar along their ways to power are indicators of moral judgments. Sulla is portrayed as a vulgar buffoon while Caesar is painted as the evenhanded hero. By contrasting these two men’s financial styles, an insight can be gained into that period of Roman history. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Bibliography** Plutarch. Lives penguin press edition 3