Rubicon: The Triumph and Tragedy of the Roman Republic (Extract)

This podcast episode explores the pivotal moment in history when Julius Caesar crossed the Rubicon, marking the end of the Roman Republic and the establishment of a monarchy. It delves into the historical attempts to return to the principles of the Roman Republic, the cautionary tale it presents for democracies, and the enduring relevance of the Roman Republic in modern times. The episode also highlights the challenges of reconstructing history and understanding the unique values and behaviors of the Romans. Despite the fragmented nature of ancient historical records, historians strive to piece together a cohesive story of the Republic's fall through narrative history.