in which the classicist turns off the television and picks up her books

[artyartie]

I've already warned my roommate that next week when I watch Rome, she may hear me screaming and throwing things at the television. Based on the previews, I think...



I don't think dear Cicero is long for this world. Now I must admit, when I first starting reading everything I could about him, when I got to his tragic and violent death, I was very choked up. I only knew this man from letters and essays, in translation, nonetheless, but his words hit me even 2,000 years later. So I have a feeling next week, or the week after if they wait until then, I may just be bawling in front of the television for a philosopher, orator and statesman long dead.

As much as I've come to enjoy Rome, even with how much they've altered and degraded Cicero's character, among others, seeing people on numerous boards and communities all but cheering on his death makes me angry as a classicist and saddenned as a human being. Yes, politicians don't make the most sympathetic characters, and Cicero was extraordinary conceited - as I was delightfully reminded of reading the Letters to Atticus this weekend, but that people are applauding someone having their head and hands cut off and nailed to the Rostra for trying to defend the Republic? O Times, O Morals.

Comments

[mayara13.livejournal.com]

seeing people on numerous boards and communities all but cheering on his death...applauding someone having their head and hands cut off

Considering how sick it makes me when people have that reaction for someone I feel is closest to "deserving" it, seeing as I don't think any human being deserves such treatment, I understand your reaction.

I'm sorry I can't be there as moral support next week (or the following, whichever it turns out to be) to watch it with you -- because I would, if we were, not in different parts of the country.

[ainsley.livejournal.com]

I just have to say YAY at seeing a Hex icon.

[artyartie.livejournal.com]

No matter if you have HBO or not, what about doing either a Rome phone chat or real-time blogging next Sunday at 9? I may just do that on Sunday night - but I would really love the moral support!

[mayara13.livejournal.com]

We have no cable at all anymore, but I'd be glad to chat and provide virtual support (as long as I remember - I'll write it on my calendar right now).