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Book mentions
4 book mentions in this episode.
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Books Mentioned

Plutarch cover

The excerpt references Plutarch discussing the issues of land ownership and the impact on Roman citizens, particularly the poor and indigent, in relation to military service.

Sentiment: Deep Dive
Trigger: Roman land distribution issues
For: Historians and students of Roman history
Key quote: He writes about some land that the Romans had just taken in conquest.
The host references Plutarch to illustrate the historical challenges of land distribution in ancient Rome and its impact on military service. This discussion highlights the conflict of interest among the wealthy senators and the struggles of the poorer citizens during that era.
ASIN: 0140445641
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Lives cover
Lives
Plutarch

Plutarch, a Greek writer about both of the Grakas brothers, presents them as heroes, portraying the Senate as the evil empire. His major work, Lives, aimed to provide moral examples from history.

Sentiment: Deep Dive
Trigger: Roman governance and leadership
For: Historians and students of political science
Key quote: When you put a lid on the ability to do that, eventually things just explode.
The host discusses the complexities of Roman governance, particularly the dual consul system, and its implications for leadership and power dynamics. The mention of Plutarch's 'Lives' serves to underscore the historical context and the lessons that can be drawn from Roman history regarding ambition and governance.
ASIN: 1761534238
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The Story of Civilization cover

Will Durant provides an interesting post script concerning how the people that Caius Grakis had appealed to reacted.

Sentiment: Passing Reference
Trigger: Caius Grakis appeal
For: Readers interested in historical reactions and civilization studies.
Key quote: Will Durant provides an interesting post script concerning how the people that Caius Grakis had appealed to reacted.
The host briefly mentions Will Durant's insights in 'The Story of Civilization' regarding the reactions of people to Caius Grakis' appeals. This reference serves to highlight the historical context of public response in civilization.
ASIN: B0026S3RGS
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The Graki cover
The Graki
Tom Holland

Tom Holland sums up this period when he writes about the tragedy of the Graki and their genuine passion to improve the lot of their fellow citizens.

Sentiment: Deep Dive
Trigger: Caius Grakus and reforms
For: Historians and those interested in Roman history
Key quote: A system that encouraged a gnawing hunger for prestige in its citizens that seethed with their vaunting rivalries that generated a diamondism so aggressive that it had overwhelmed all who came against it also bred paralysis.
The host discusses the tragic fate of Caius Grakus and his brother, highlighting their genuine desire to improve the lives of Roman citizens despite their political ambitions. Tom Holland's book provides a critical analysis of the societal and political dynamics that led to their martyrdom and the subsequent shift in Roman politics.
ASIN: B0084BNPS6
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