Essay Questions

How does Velleius Paterculus illustrate that no human is immortal?

Some people tend to think they will live forever because they have power and influence over others. However, Paterculus disapproves this belief using the character Julius Caesar. Caesar is among the most influential and powerful leaders who thinks that they are created to rule the world for the rest of their lives. He declares himself as the global leader after emerging as the winner in the civil war. He is feared by even the nations that are considered powerful. No one dares to attack him but at last, he is assassinated. His assassination proves that no individual can live forever regales of power and influence.

What is common among the characters Caesar, Brutus, Cassius, and Mark?

All these characters die before accomplishing their missions. For instance, after Julius Caesar declares himself the Emperor of Rome, he is assassinated before showing the world that he is immortal. Mark Antony and his wife are posing a threat to Octavian but they die before bringing down the kingdom. Similarly, Brutus and Cassius die before accomplishing their mission of taking over the Kingdom of Rome. Therefore, the reader can conclude that death is the predominant theme in the History of Rome.

Why is Julius Caesar chosen as the point man and leader of the civil war?

Caesar is a preemptive soldier who rarely loses in the battles that he participates in. He can organize troops using tactical strategies that the enemy cannot understand. Because of his brilliance, he wins the civil war and everyone is scared of him. After realizing that he is feared and recognized by everyone, he affirms himself as the emperor of Rome and no one dares to oppose him.