Fides Virtus Essay

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Introduction



In the Roman context, the concept of Fides was a fundamental component in the individuality of a man of public affairs, and an essential element of all social as well as political transaction. In particular, Fides implies reliability, which encompassed a sense of trust between two sets of parties if an association between them was to be existent. Moreover, both the secretive and open abuse of Fides was deemed a severe matter, and had both religious and legal repercussions. On the other hand, in the Roman context, Virtus meant in the first place, acting like a brave man in military aspects. This concept of virtus was to be perceived in the context of outstanding actions, and brave actions were the achievements that generated a reputation (Adams, 2009). In Roman history, there were Emperors that best showed these concepts and there are those who failed to demonstrate these qualities.

Roman Leaders that Demonstrated the Qualities of Fides and Virtus



One of the emperors that demonstrated the elements of Fides and Virtus was Caligula Gaius Caesar. In particular, Caligula was the son of Germanicus. He became emperor at 24 years devoid of any contention, owing to the fact that his brothers had died. Caligula was deemed to have the aspect of Fides as he was accredited with all the virtues of his father. He was straightaway much-admired princeps. In addition, he commenced his rule by emancipating captives, recalling outcasts, openly burning impeaching documents, and displaying great fortitude and will power in the unfamiliar business of administration.

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Claudius is another emperor that displayed Fides and Virtus. Claudius was the uncle of Caligula and for the most part had been overshadowed by his brother Germanicus. However, when he started his rule, Claudius demonstrated exceedingly meticulous leadership. In particular, his objectives were outstanding, and his political philosophy was intellectual. In addition, during the course of his reign of the Roman Empire, the Romans reveled in general success and there were very minimal grievances and criticism from the provinces. Moreover, his brevity was showcased in the key achievement, which was the organized invasion and overthrow of the south of Britain (Roman Empire, 2017).

Titus Flavius Sabinus Vespasian is another leader that demonstrated these qualities. In particular, Vespasian was a very practical individual; he was a man of the people. His brevity can be perceived in the fact that he had been fighting, leading and organizing soldiers for three decades. Moreover, he was perceptive of character and had a comprehensive understanding of the empire from all ends. Vespasian's reputation is known for restoring order in the empire, leading to very minimal success of rebellions. His stern perceptiveness was the best conceivable solution to the fraud taking place at the time, making politeness trendier than crudeness. Vespasian did not participate in any form of….....

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References

Adams, J. P. (2009). The Roman Concept of Fides. CSUN. Retrieved from: http://www.csun.edu/~hcfll004/fides.html

Benario, H. W. (2006). The Imperial Index: The Rulers of the Roman Empire From Augustus to Constantine XI Palaeologus. Retrieved from: http://www.roman-emperors.org/impindex.htm

Roman Empire. (2017). The Early Emperors. Retrieved from: http://www.roman-empire.net/emperors/emp-index.html

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