The story of the proud Roman king Tarquin serves as a warning of what dangers and vices are associated with royalty and pride. Even Tarquin's first act after Servius' death is despicable and dishonorable. Tarquin's pride has no bounds and so he is known forever in history as Tarquin the Proud. Livy's stories shape a Roman society that would prefer a republic instead of a regency or dictatorship.

After Tarquin is instated as king he immediately gets a bodyguard and is justified in doing this. Tarquin is neither supported by the people or the Senate. His lack of support among the Romans forces him to make the people fear him and his power. He killed and exiled many of his opponents and took property. He failed to consult the Senate on many different matters and made himself the supreme ruler in Rome.

Tarquin would also...