Comparing Patriarchal Societies In Dictator And The Odyssey

There is a unique culture buried beneath the last 2,500 years. Roman and Greek cultures are large influencers on modern society through aspects like religion and mathematics, but literature is the most tangible. The glorious past of Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome refuse to be lost stories in modern day literature and culture. There are profound similarities in the ancient Greek and ancient Roman patriarchal societies. Robert Harris and Homer highlight these similarities and differences in their works of literature, Dictator and The Odyssey, respectively. The balance of power, treacherous battles and the desperate need for survival in a changing society are constant themes in both works. Both Dictator and The Odyssey show the crucial need for dependency on others for success, an idea that is still prevalent today. The time periods might have changed, but the tumultuous nature of the world is as common today as

In the novel, Dictator, Harris showcases the repercussions of power that Roman lawyer, politician and orator Cicero faces. Cicero’s slave and secretary, Tiro writes the story telling the audience about Cicero’s life after fleeing the mob in Rome. When he returns after a year, he does so under the assumption that he will support Julius Caesar and the revival of the Roman Republic. Due to Caesar’s assassination and the rise of Marc Antony, Cicero is unable to resuscitate the Roman Republic and lives out his final years facing familial issues. For much of this period, Cicero is obliged to compromise just to stay alive. As the balance of power shifts and Rome endures significant change, he is there. Cicero finds himself at the heart of the action, either in exile, sent to govern a distant province or made to give assurance that he will take no further part in political life – a promise he finds impossible to keep. He does begin to write and spend time with his daughter, Tulia. The short glimpses into Cicero’s life outside of political