The Roman Empire, behind its heroic and magnificent historical narrative, leaves behind a dark chapter.
One of these dark chapters, recorded by the eminent contemporary writer Suetonius Tranquillus, is noteworthy. It is undeniable that Suetonius is the extraordinary first biographer in the world.
Fortunately, there are writers
fortunately, there is the world’s first historian and biographer, Suetonius, who documented it. Without him, history would be mere passing events.
Why? Because the death of the Roman emperor, not the first but a crucial one, occurred with Julius Caesar.
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The lives of emperors were chronicled in his monumental work, De Vita Caesarum (On the Lives of the Caesars). One of the most tragic moments etched in the pages of history is the betrayal of Julius Caesar by Junius Brutus.
Cruelty unfolded in the midst of a glorious empire, as ambition and lust for power ignited in Brutus’ heart.
On an unforgettable day, Brutus coldly thrust his sword into the mighty Caesar’s abdomen, the highly revered ruler.
This act was not just a murder but also the destruction of symbols of power and authority.
The great Caesar exposed himself, and fresh blood flooded the sacred ground, creating a stark contrast with the grand marble of the Roman Palace.
Caesar, the great emperor, lay exposed, devoid of any remnants of greatness in his lifeless body.
Even in his agony, Caesar, who had led boldly, maintained his honor. With a weak yet meaningful voice, he questioned his own friend, Brutus, “Et tu, Brute?”
These words echoed in the corridors of the now-transformed realm of power, creating an echo that chilled the heart of every witness. They were the expressions of a leader betrayed by someone he trusted, marking the end of an era.
When Caesar was attacked by a group of senators, including Marcus Junius Brutus, on March 15, 44 BC (Ides of March), he realized that Brutus, whom he considered a friend and ally, was also part of the conspiracy.
Caesar’s disappointment and surprise
This expression is translated as “Et tu, Brute?” or “Are you also, Brutus?” It reflects Caesar’s disappointment and surprise at the betrayal of someone he considered close.
Behind this tragedy arises philosophical questions about ambition, betrayal, and the cost of power. Can greed and the lust for power destroy the foundations of humanity that we build? How far can one go to achieve personal goals?
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This story serves as a moral whip, reminding us of the fragility of life and the importance of upholding values of justice, honesty, and loyalty.
The magnificent Roman Empire once witnessed a dark shadow that might never completely fade, but history remains a mirror guiding us to be wiser and more cautious on the journey toward justice and truth.
Brutus, too, met a tragic end
Marcus Junius Brutus, born in 85 BC in Macedonia, raised under the principles of Stoicism by his uncle Cato the Younger.
After Caesar declared himself perpetual dictator, Brutus joined Cassius to assassinate Caesar on March 15, 44 BC. As a result, Brutus was forced to flee and eventually met his demise after experiencing defeat in the Battle of Philippi.
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“Whoever kills with the sword, shall (eventually) die by the sword!”
