Comparing Modern Politics to Ancient Rome

In recent decades, presidents from both major political parties have sought to increase the power of the presidency. President Trump has been particularly aggressive in this pursuit, which raises questions for some about the current state of politics.

Mary Beard, a classicist with expertise in ancient Rome, reflected on these political developments. In a conversation with John Guida, an editor with Times Opinion, Beard shared her insights on the parallels between ancient Rome’s political scene and today’s environment.

John Guida’s Perspective

Guida proposed that reflections on ancient Rome might help interpret the current structures of power. He cited contemporary ambitions like a proposed triumphal arch in Washington D.C. and a public spectacle reminiscent of gladiatorial contests, planned on the White House lawn.

Mary Beard’s Insights

Mary Beard observed clear echoes of ancient Rome in today’s politics. The notion of triumphal arches has roots in Rome, where they marked significant military victories or celebrated general Roman successes. Several of these structures still stand today, like the Arch of Constantine by the Colosseum. Monarchs in later periods borrowed this idea, constructing imposing marble monuments or temporary structures for various events.

The original Roman arches were likely even more elaborate than the proposals today, often adorned with gold fittings and sculptures. Beard remarked that President Trump is not unique in his interest in such structures. Washington D.C. narrowly avoided having an arch connected to the Navy Memorial in the 1980s, and a temporary plaster arch appeared on Pennsylvania Avenue at the end of World War I.

Additionally, an event at the White House involving a championship fighting spectacle served to celebrate the president’s 80th birthday. Such occurrences further underline the cultural connections between current political aspirations and the grandeur once associated with imperial Rome.