Heroes and Villains in History

Module 11 Discussion: Heroes and Villains in History

Julius Caesar, who you read about in the readings and who you saw featured in the videos for this lesson, is one of the most controversial characters in history. Was he a hero, ruling effectively and benevolently to replace a corrupt Roman government? Or was he a villain, ruthlessly seizing power for himself? The same could be said about Augustus Caesar. Did he restore peace and revive Rome, or did her destroy freedom?

Here is a video discussing these issues with Caesar:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgPymD-NBQU

Here is a video discussion these issues with Augustus:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrcmojhFmzY

Your discussion post this week will answer two questions:

1. Do you think Julius Caesar was a good ruler? Why or why not? Would you have joined the conspiracy against him?
2. What were the accomplishments of Augustus and what were his drawbacks as a ruler? Do you think that there can be good dictators/emperors or is that impossible?