The Values and Goals of Roman Nobility
The culture shared by the aristocracy of Rome in the second century BC was underpinned by a definitive set of values, providing an ideological and methodical archetype by which an individual stringently abided throughout the course of their life. Adherence to this regimented ethos brought glory to oneself, one’s ancestors (past and future) and ultimately to Rome. The nobility within Roman society at the time focussed primarily on the greater collective good of Rome, through an individual and ancestral emphasis on militaristic and political pursuits. It is understandable then, that their value system was structured on the basis of achieving excellence within the scope of these spheres. Quintus Metellus, in his eulogy to his father Lucius Metellus the pontiff, provides excellent insight stating that Lucius “had achieved the ten greatest and highest objects in the pursuit of which men pass their lives; for he had made it his aim to be a first class warrior, a supreme orator and very brave commander, to have the direction of operations of the highest importance, to enjoy the greatest honour, to be supremely wise, to be deemed the most eminent member of the senate, to obtain great wealth in an honourable way, to leave many children, and to achieve supreme distinction in the state.”
Being noble came with the expectation of continuing, solidifying and improving upon the heritage forged by one’s ancestors. Children of nobility were groomed from a young age, trained as soldiers, instructed in public oration and made familiar with the political machinations of the state, while being mindful and reminded of the virtue and glory of their forefathers, so much so that several eminent Romans “were in the habit of declaring that their hearts were set mightily aflame for the pursuit of virtue whenever they gazed upon the masks of their