Sertorius, Eumenes and The Comparison of Sertorius and Eumenes Summary and Analysis

Sertorius was a Roman nobleman who rose to the rank of general after proving his cleverness in defending Gaul against the Cimbri and Teutones, and was eventually elevated to be the military commander of the region of Gaul. In Rome, two rival factions developed between the supporters of the consuls Octavius and Cinna. Sertorius threw his lot in with Cinna, but it was Octavius who prevailed. Along with Cinna and the exiled general Marius, Sertorius raised an army and won back control of Rome, only to lose favor once again when Sylla came to power.

Plutarch describes Sertorius as a firm and fair commander whose troops were known for their discipline and virtue, unlike the reputation of the soldiers under Marius or Cinna. Having been...