3 Reasons Not to Like The Roman Civilization

While Roman civilization is often portrayed as the pinnacle of human achievement, with grand architecture, legal innovations, and advancements in governance, a closer examination reveals that its contributions may not be as beneficial as commonly believed. In the following sections, we will delve into three compelling reasons why the legacy of Rome, rather than being universally celebrated, is often overrated and left lasting consequences that we continue to grapple with.

The caryatid porch of the Erechtheion in Athens, Greece.

Reason 1: Greek Cultural Appropriation in Roman Civilization

One of the most significant critiques of Roman civilization lies in its tendency to appropriate and subsequently distort elements of Greek culture, leading to a legacy that is often flawed. The Romans borrowed extensively from Greek philosophy, but their interpretation often lacked the depth and nuance that characterized Greek thought. For example, while Greek philosophers like Socrates and Plato emphasized ethics and the search for truth, Romans such as Seneca and Cicero often diluted these concepts, using them to justify power and dominance rather than genuine introspection and moral progress.

In politics, the adoption of the Greek democratic system was superficial at best. Romans repurposed these ideals primarily to legitimize the authority of their dictatorial leaders, effectively transforming noble concepts into tools of tyranny.

Art and architecture saw similar patterns of exploitation. While Roman sculptures sometimes aimed to replicate the beauty of Greek originals, they were often commissioned to serve propagandistic purposes. Busts of emperors became instruments for enhancing the cult of personality rather than celebrating artistic merit. The intention behind these works shifted from artistic expression to a means of aggrandizing rulers and controlling public opinion. This transition from genuineness to propaganda reveals a broader trend in Roman civilization: the reliance on Greek cultural achievements as a crutch, which they not only misinterpreted but used to perpetuate their own less admirable political agendas.

A roman general standing in front of murdered soldiers.

Reason 2: Alarming Normalization of Brutality

The Roman civilization's penchant for glorifying violence is starkly illustrated through their infamous gladiator fights and military campaigns. These brutal spectacles were not just mere entertainment; they were an integral part of Roman culture, reflecting the society’s acceptance and even celebration of violence. Gladiators—often slaves, prisoners of war, or criminals—were pitted against one another or wild beasts in arenas, with thousands of spectators cheering as combatants fought to the death. This normalization of brutality led to a disturbing social paradigm where human life was less valued than the thrill of the brutal game. The brutal spectacles of the arena were not just entertaining; they were a potent symbol of the Roman state’s power and its cold calculation of life and death.

Moreover, Roman generals and soldiers who led brutal military campaigns were often glorified as heroes, their victories celebrated in grand triumphal parades. Campaigns against rebellious provinces often included ruthless tactics designed to quash dissent, yet these actions were framed as heroic deeds essential for the empire's expansion and strength. The desire for glory and the allure of conquest overshadowed the bloodshed and suffering incurred in the pursuit of empire. This mindset not only justified the brutal squashing of rebellions but created a dangerous precedent where force became an acceptable tool for maintaining power.

As a consequence, Rome's legacy has often been one of conflict and oppression. The glorification of these brutal episodes left cracks in the moral fabric of society, setting a precedent for future empires that would find justification for their own violent practices. Today, we find ourselves in a world still grappling with the repercussions of this normalization, as violence continues to echo through history, prompting reflections on ethics, power, and human life.

Sculpture Artemision Bronze in National Archaeological Museum of Athens.

Reason 3: Suppression of Polytheistic Religions

One of the more troubling aspects of Roman civilization was its systematic dismantling of polytheistic religions that celebrated a diversity of beliefs and pantheons. Initially, Rome was characterized by a degree of religious tolerance, allowing for multiple gods and various practices within its vast empire. However, as Christianity gained prominence, the landscape shifted dramatically. The Edict of Milan in 313 AD marked a significant turning point, as it not only legalized Christianity, but also paved the way for its rise to dominance.

With this newfound power came an exclusivity that effectively marginalized other religions. The consolidation of Christian authority led to a brutal campaign against pagan practices, fostering an environment where alternative religious beliefs were not just overlooked but actively persecuted. Temples dedicated to ancient gods were destroyed or repurposed, and priesthoods dissolved in favor of a singular religious narrative that held the truth as an absolute. This movement toward religious exclusivity had far-reaching consequences, as it not only suppressed established traditions but also instilled fear regarding dissenting beliefs.

Moreover, the notion of one true faith was solidified, establishing a precedence for religious dogmatism that would echo throughout the centuries. The philosopher John Stuart Mill noted, “The demand for absolute certainty in religious belief has led to intolerance against other views, marking a departure from intellectual freedom.” This intolerance paved the way for future conflicts, as differing beliefs were no longer seen as benign variations but as challenges to the prevailing order.

In essence, the Roman civilization's shift from a pantheon of diverse beliefs to a singular religious truth catalyzed a legacy of exclusivity and intolerance. By establishing a framework that dismissed other faiths, Rome inadvertently laid the groundwork for centuries of conflict and discrimination, a challenge still faced in today's pluralistic societies.

The legacy of Roman civilization, while often romanticized, is fraught with challenges that echo throughout history. From their superficial appropriation of Greek philosophy and culture to the normalization of violence through gladiatorial games and military conquest, and ultimately to the suppression of diverse religious beliefs, it becomes clear that Rome's contributions are not universally positive. These aspects of Roman life have led to societal issues that persist to this day, influencing contemporary views on governance, violence, and religious tolerance. As we reassess the Roman Empire's impact, it is crucial to recognize and critically analyze these darker facets that continue to shape our modern world.