Sallust
Latin · Geography · Historiography
2 works · 3,483 aligned sentences
Histories
This historical work depicts the domestic and foreign crises of the late Roman Republic through a collection of powerful speeches and letters delivered by key politicians, generals, and foreign monarchs. Set against the backdrop of the turbulent period following Sulla's death, the text explores the loss of liberty, the rise of oligarchy, and the escalating military conflicts threatening Rome. Domestically, figures like Lepidus and Macer address the Roman citizens, denouncing the cruelty of the Sullan regime and urging them to rise up to restore their ancestral freedom and tribunician rights. In response, Philippus delivers a fiery warning to the Senate, demanding decisive action against Lepidus's rebellion, while Consul Cotta and General Pompey plead for immediate state support amid severe military and financial distress. On the foreign front, a strategic letter from Mithridates, King of Pontus, exposes Rome's insatiable lust for dominion and seeks an alliance with Parthia. Through these vivid rhetorical pieces, the work powerfully illustrates the fragmentation, desperation, and conflicting ambitions that pushed the Republic to its limits.
Geography10 chunks · §Lep.1-Lep.16–§Mithr.13-Mithr.231,009 aligned sentencesRead →The Conspiracy of Catiline
This historical work by Sallust chronicles the dramatic events of the Catilinian conspiracy that shook the late Roman Republic in the 1st century BC. The author begins by reflecting on his transition from corrupt politics to writing history, setting the stage by analyzing the dark, extraordinary character of Catiline against the backdrop of Rome's moral decline. The narrative follows Catiline as he rallies debt-ridden nobles and disaffected youths to orchestrate a coup, while the consul Cicero works tirelessly to expose the plot. After the conspirators in Rome are arrested, the focus shifts to a famous debate in the Senate, where Julius Caesar argues for clemency and Cato the Younger demands immediate execution, reflecting deep political divisions. Ultimately, the city conspirators are executed, and Catiline, trapped with his rebel army, dies fighting bravely in a final desperate battle. Through this detailed account, the work vividly portrays the loss of civic virtue and the profound political instability of the late Republic.
Geography21 chunks · §1-3–§59-612,474 aligned sentencesRead →