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It Don't Life: Mary Beard's Exploration of Cicero, Pompey, and Caesar

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It's a Don's Life

by Mary Beard

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3682 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	292 pages

In her acclaimed book *It Don't Life*, classicist Mary Beard delves into the tumultuous lives and legacies of three iconic figures from ancient Rome: Cicero, Pompey, and Caesar. Through meticulous research and lively prose, Beard paints a vivid portrait of these complex individuals and the era they inhabited.

Cicero: The Orator and Statesman

A Bust Of Cicero, A Roman Orator And Statesman It S A Don S Life Mary Beard

Cicero was a brilliant orator and a prolific writer. He served as consul of Rome in 63 BC and played a key role in the political life of the late Republic. Cicero was a staunch defender of the Roman constitution and a vocal opponent of Julius Caesar. After Caesar's victory in the civil war, Cicero was proscribed and executed.

Beard's portrayal of Cicero is nuanced and sympathetic. She explores his strengths and weaknesses, his idealism and his pragmatism. Cicero was a complex figure, and Beard does not shy away from his flaws. However, she also gives him credit for his courage and his commitment to the Roman Republic.

Pompey: The Great General

A Bust Of Pompey, A Roman General And Politician It S A Don S Life Mary Beard

Pompey was one of the most successful generals in Roman history. He conquered vast territories in the East and was awarded the title of Magnus (the Great). Pompey was also a skilled politician, and he played a major role in the First Triumvirate with Julius Caesar and Marcus Crassus.

Beard's account of Pompey's life is both admiring and critical. She praises his military prowess and his political acumen. However, she also notes his arrogance and his ambition. Pompey's downfall was ultimately his rivalry with Caesar, and Beard traces the steps that led to their inevitable clash.

Caesar: The Dictator

A Bust Of Julius Caesar, A Roman General And Dictator It S A Don S Life Mary Beard

Julius Caesar was one of the most ambitious and successful men in Roman history. He conquered Gaul, invaded Britain, and became dictator of Rome. Caesar was a brilliant general and a skilled politician. However, he was also ruthless and ambitious, and his rule ultimately led to the downfall of the Roman Republic.

Beard's portrait of Caesar is complex and fascinating. She explores his motivations and his methods, his successes and his failures. Beard does not shy away from Caesar's dark side, but she also gives him credit for his brilliance and his vision. Caesar was a transformative figure, and Beard's account of his life is a must-read for anyone interested in Roman history.

In *It Don't Life*, Mary Beard brings the ancient world to life. She tells the stories of three of the most iconic figures from Roman history with verve and insight. Beard's book is a must-read for anyone interested in ancient Rome, Roman history, or simply great storytelling.

It's a Don's Life

by Mary Beard

4.1 out of 5