5- Gallic Wars - Lecture notes 5 PDF

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GALLIC WARS – Julius Caesar

Gaul: consists of 3 regions: Belgae, Aquitani, Celts (Gauls). Differ in language customs and law. Belgae: bravest, farthest from civilization and merchants. Don’t have things that “effeminate” the mind as corruption. Nearest to Germans. Celts (Helvetti): Brave too. Always in war w Germany either defending or attacking. Confined by nature so had narrow limits to fight. Really wanted to because they are renowned for their warfare and bravery. Burned towns and corn (own and neighbours), took 3 month provisions and corn Orgetorix: Office of ambassador to the states. most distinguished and wealthy. Formed a conspiracy amongst nobility and persuaded people and Sequani, Aeduan leaders (dumnorix and casticus) to join forces and try conquer Gaul. He committed suicide. Dumnorix: kind, married Orgetorix daughter, helped Helvetii in crossing Sequani bc he was friendly and loved by both, Also wanted to have maximum states attached to him by his kindness. Brother of Divitiacus (general from Aedui) he doesn’t want to succumb to roman rule. Although they asked for Caesar defense against Helvetii. Power-hungry River Garonne: separates Gauls from Aquitani River Rhine: broad and deep river, separating Helvetian territory from Germans River Marne and Seine: separates Gauls and Auitani from Belgae Allobroge: roman province

How does Caesar describe the barbarian peoples he encountered during his campaign? Unreliable. They withheld the food and deliberately tried to sabotage his campaign because they didn’t want to side with the Romans. Cowardly. Treacherous. Ungrateful. A lot of people begged him. What image does he project of his own leadership, and how does he account for his military success? 3-line formation: 2 remained at arms while 3rd built another set of fortifications. Left 2 legions in new camp and took 4 to the old camp. Strategic formations. Took prisoners. Captured baggage. Lenient and understanding. Attacked while Helvetii were unaware. Provident in constructing bridges, fortification. Speedy. In Caesar’s view, what distinguishes “civilized” from “uncivilized” peoples? What do you think his aim was in writing the work?...