Julius Caesar: Roman General and Statesman

Julius Caesar

Julius Caesar was born in 100 BC and belonged to a patrician family claiming descent from Iulus, son of Aeneas. He entered politics early, beginning his career through the established Roman system. His political life became intertwined with the general history of Rome from 60 BC when he formed the First Triumvirate with Crassus and Pompey. In 59 BC, he was appointed consul. After his consulate, he became proconsul of Cisalpine Gaul and Transalpine Gaul. In eight years, he conquered all of Gaul. He confronted Pompey and became dictator in 48 BC. Following the Civil War, he became the master of Rome. Caesar was assassinated by senators on the Ides of March (March 15) in 44 BC.

Works

Julius Caesar's surviving works are two historical accounts: The Gallic War and The Civil War. These works are known as commentarii, appearing to be a collection of notes or military dispatches Caesar compiled during his campaigns.

The Gallic War

This work consists of seven books written by Caesar about the war in Gaul. An eighth book, written by his lieutenant, Aulus Hirtius, is included at the end. The events described in the first seven books took place between 58 and 52 BC.

The Civil War

This book recounts the events of 49-48 BC, during the civil war between Caesar and Pompey. It comprises three books. The apologetic intention of this work is even clearer than in The Gallic War; it aims to justify the usurpation of power and Pompey's death, and to blame the Senate and the aristocracy for the war.

Style

Caesar's works are an excellent model of historical narrative, particularly noted for their clarity. The story is told without unnecessary detail, avoiding ambitious introductions, extensive descriptions, and moral considerations. Caesar was a purist in language, avoiding archaic or poetic words, though occasional early neglect can be detected. Julius Caesar is considered a model of classical prose.