Plutarch's Greeks and Romans Podcast

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In this episode, we complete our dive into the life and legacy of Marcus Furius Camillus, one of Rome's most celebrated military leaders and statesmen, often hailed as the "Second Founder of Rome." Camillus played a crucial role in shaping the early Roman Republic, guiding it through some of its most challenging periods.

We began in episode one by exploring his early life and rise to power, discussing his military acumen and the series of victories that earned him the position of dictator. His most famous triumph came during the siege of Veii, a wealthy Etruscan city that had been a rival to Rome for many years. Camillus led the Roman forces to a decisive victory, which not only expanded Roman territory but also significantly bolstered the city's wealth.

Episode two covers the dramatic events of 390 BC when Rome was sacked by the Gauls. As the city lay in ruins, it was Camillus who was called back from exile to save the Republic. His leadership and strategic genius during the Battle of the Allia helped to drive out the invaders and restore order to the shaken city. This heroic act earned him the title of pater patriae, or "father of the fatherland."

We also discuss the controversy surrounding Camillus, particularly the accusations of corruption that led to his temporary exile. Despite these challenges, Camillus's reputation as a military strategist and statesman remained unblemished, cementing his place in Roman history.

Finally, the episode reflects on Camillus's legacy, not just as a military leader but as a pivotal figure in the development of Rome's political and social structures. His contributions set the stage for Rome's expansion and dominance in the centuries to come.

Join us as we explore the life of Marcus Furius Camillus, a man whose actions shaped the destiny of Rome and whose legend endures to this day.

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Lysander's importance to history begins when he is appointed as admiral of the Spartan fleet in 407 BC. At this point Athens's navy has experienced a resurgence with the return of Alcibiades.
Lysander takes command of the Spartan fleet at Ephesus and resolves to do what it takes to make it a match for the Athenian navy.
A tall order - is Lysander up for the challenge?
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Chris & Ryan

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Lycurgus was the man who gave Sparta it's laws and transformed it into a polis like no other - a warrior-society which would produce the most fearsome soldiers of the Ancient World.

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After suffering a disastrous setback in Sicily the situation once again looks grim for Athens. The Athenians would continue the fight however and the story of the Peloponnesian War would see a number of surprising twists - with Alcibiades playing a key role in each new turning point in the conflict.
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Chris & Ryan

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The long awaited conclusion is here! Man or legend, you be the judge!
Romulus begins the episode mounting a daring rescue of his brother Remus, kidnapped by Numitors herdsmen, and most certainly headed for personal disaster.
With Remus rescued, Numitor on the throne, Romulus will rise to his legend and found Rome, her politics, her military, societal structures and religious and moral codes.
Romulus would lay the foundations for Rome's growth strategies' of integrating her enemies, and striving for glory enshrined in the practice of the triumph!
Man or legend, Rome rose and mastered civilization for millennia.
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Excerpt from the episode
Chris: Before Romulus set out to build the shinning bright city on the hill, he sent for men from Tuscany who would ensure the coming construction projects followed sacred usages, and the written rules in all the ceremonies and rights required prior and during construction.

Chris: First the dug a circular trench for which the Court of Assembly would stand, and solemnly threw in the first fruits of all things good as custom dictated, and lastly every man took some earth and tossed it into the ditch. First Fruits is a common ritual in western religions, and at the time, represented the fruits of their labor from harvest and other fruits of the labor which were allowed under the ceremony rules. Perhaps, this ritual is similar to the breaking of Champaign bottles on the hull of newly minted ocean vessels or ribbon cutting ceremonies for large public projects.

Chris: So, this ditch they dug, they called Mundus, as they called the heavens served as the center of the city, now properly ordained through religious ceremony and rights, would expand out around Mundus very quickly and would grow and grow as the centuries passed.

Chris: Rome was never said to be well designed and caused future Romans many problems and I wonder if this early city planning provided precedent for how the city would be built.

Chris: Romulus next took a plow attached it to a bull and cow and plowed a large and deep trench around the city center, with workers following behind, massaging the uprooted soil inwards towards the city, forming the foundation for Rome’s first wall system, which was ordained holly, less the spot left for the entrance and side gates, for entrance ways could never be holly due to uncle3an men who would walk through. Maybe sort of like walking under a ladder today is considered a bad omen, but to the superstitious Romans, rituals were godly, and godliness was not something to trifle with or even to attempt fate as that could bring disaster in some form.

Chris: So it is widely accepted Rome was founded or construction began on April 21, and that day the Romans keep holy, calling it their country’s birthday. This is the day that Romulus completed the Mundus, performed the ceremonies and plowed the borders of the city which would eventually house a large wall. Rome was founded and built quickly starting with 1,000 homes and expanded every day. Romulus was the sole King, and the Roman adventure was officially off to the races.
Hope you enjoy the episode
Chris & Ryan

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Thanks for supporting our show Plutarch enthusiasts!
Thanks to all our listeners, we appreciate your support!
Stay tuned for more new and exciting upcoming biographies
Chris & Ryan