In the third Roman novel we see a marked difference in the tenor of characters and events; although Caesar and his associates seem to think that Rome is on her feet again, events may prove otherwise, and the road to this seeming rehabilitation has been an extremely rocky one. What, then, are the signs that Roman politics and society are in dangerous or bad shape? Look at the foreign affairs as well as the internal affairs. What does the Spartacan slave uprising tell us about Roman attitudes toward individual freedom and liberty?

1. Is Pompey really as guileless as he seems, or is there method behind his seemingly endless ego? What does his election to the office of consul tell us about the shape of Roman politics at this stage?

2. What is there about Caesar's character and actions that shows us that he is destined for greatness...