The Need for Connections

Caesar is one of the chief examples of this theme, though it obviously recurs in all six men as evidenced by the way their lives intertwine during this period of Rome's history. In Caesar's case, he knows that in order to rise to power in Rome he needs the support of either Crassus or Pompey behind him. He also knows that if he gains the support of one, he will immediately gain the enmity of the other because the two men are completely at odds. With this in mind, he sets forth a plan to gain the support of both. Toward this end, Caesar tells both men that they are empowering the other by remaining enemies. He points out to Pompey that every supporter of Crassus would be his own supporter if the two men were united—and does the same with Crassus. He...