Glossary
Characterization
The literary techniques Caesar uses to portray himself, his allies, and his enemies, often highlighting their strengths or weaknesses to serve his narrative purpose.
Example:
Caesar's characterization of Vercingetorix as a formidable but ultimately flawed opponent enhances his own image as a superior leader.
Close Reading
A critical analytical skill involving paying close attention to the details of the text, including word choice, sentence structure, and rhetorical devices, to understand its full meaning and implications.
Example:
Performing a Close Reading of a passage about a Gallic ambush reveals Caesar's strategic brilliance and the Gauls' tactical errors.
Commentarii (genre)
A specific Latin literary genre, typically a straightforward prose account or 'war journal,' used by Caesar to document his military achievements and justify his actions.
Example:
Unlike epic poetry, a commentarii aims for a factual, objective tone, though Caesar masterfully manipulates this expectation.
Commentarii de Bello Gallico
Caesar's firsthand account of his military campaigns in Gaul from 58-52 BC, detailing his strategies, battles, and interactions with Gallic tribes.
Example:
Studying Commentarii de Bello Gallico reveals how Caesar used his writing to justify his conquests and shape public opinion in Rome.
Gaul
The geographical setting for Caesar's campaigns, encompassing modern-day France, Belgium, Switzerland, and parts of Germany.
Example:
Caesar's campaigns in Gaul were instrumental in expanding Roman influence and securing his own political power.
Gravitas
A key Roman value representing seriousness, dignity, responsibility, and a sense of purpose, often associated with mature Roman statesmen.
Example:
Caesar's calm demeanor in the face of mutiny demonstrates his gravitas and control.
Leadership (LDR)
One of the three main analytical lenses, examining different types of leaders and leadership styles, including how they respond to challenges and inspire followers.
Example:
The text provides numerous examples of Leadership styles, from Caesar's strategic brilliance to the desperate courage of Gallic chieftains.
Literary Style and Genre (LIT)
One of the three main analytical lenses for the AP Latin exam, focusing on the form, content, purpose, and rhetorical effects of Caesar's writing.
Example:
An AP question might ask how Caesar's Literary Style and Genre choices contribute to his portrayal of Gallic resistance.
Pietas
A key Roman value signifying duty, loyalty, and devotion, particularly towards gods, family, and the state.
Example:
A general who prioritizes the well-being of his troops and the success of the Republic exemplifies pietas.
Propagandist
A term used to describe Caesar's role in crafting his *Commentarii* not just as a historical document, but as a carefully designed work to shape public opinion and present himself favorably.
Example:
Caesar acted as his own propagandist, ensuring his military successes were widely known and his political ambitions justified.
Roman Values (RMV)
One of the three main analytical lenses, exploring the ideals characteristic of Roman society, such as *virtus*, *pietas*, and *gravitas*, and how they are portrayed or challenged in the text.
Example:
Understanding Roman Values helps explain why Caesar emphasizes the loyalty of his soldiers and the treachery of his enemies.
Thesis Statement
A clear, specific statement that presents the main argument or point of an essay, which must be supported by evidence from the text in free-response questions.
Example:
A strong Thesis Statement for an essay on Caesar's leadership might argue that he portrays himself as a pragmatic and adaptable commander.
Third Person (point of view)
The narrative perspective Caesar employs, referring to himself as 'Caesar' rather than 'I,' which creates a sense of objectivity and detachment.
Example:
By writing in the Third Person, Caesar subtly enhances his authority and presents his actions as historically inevitable.
Virtus
A key Roman value encompassing courage, manliness, excellence, and moral integrity, often displayed in battle or public service.
Example:
A Roman soldier demonstrating exceptional bravery in battle would be praised for his virtus.