Corruption

Sallust describes corruption as destroying Roman society. He blames it on an increasingly materialistic society, who value money over glory. Sallust claims the Roman's lives become so luxurious that their attitudes become complacent—particularly within the nobility who control the country. In the Conspiracy of Catiline, society is morally corrupt. The discipline that was in place, starting with the Roman army and seeping into society, has disappeared and in its place are individuals all looking to live for the moment. As everybody is looking after himself or herself, a man such as Catalina, described by Sallust as a violent libertine, can rise to great prominence. However, one reason Catiline almost succeeds in taking over Rome is that he is fully aware of how to take advantage of a corrupt society. Sallust describes Catiline gathering the support of youngsters, criminals and poor people. He sends the youngsters gifts...