Marius 1: Ambition
A controversial figure, Gaius Marius was a ‘new man’ (novus homo), who rose from a zero to the greatest Roman of his generation, unifying the equestrians and plebs against the senatorial nobles. Even more remarkably, Marius’ career only really took off around age 50. Thanks to sponsor ideamarket.io! (@ideamarket_io on twitter) Thanks to guest narrator GritCult (@gritcult on twitter)! Key takeaways: Learning the populist game from Scipio Africanus and the Gracchi Fitting in but staying different Acquiring a fortune and a reputation Entering Roman politics as an outsider Conciliating Rivals From Tribune, to Praetor, to Consul War with Jugurtha
The Cost Of Glory Episodes
Prosper and Succeed with Spartan Realpietik
How do you buy yourself some time when you can't afford to tell people the reason why? A strategy used by a Spartan commander, Dercylidas. Brought to you by the Gree...
Comparison: Lysander and Sulla
How should we look at the lives of “problematic” great figures? Join us as we join the ancient philosopher Plutarch, in sizing up two incredible men of action. Who w...
Sulla: Five Takeaways. And Aftermath.
Mass murderer or brilliant patriot? Whatever your take on Sulla, it's worth analyzing the qualities that made him a joy to his friends, and a terror to his enemies.
History Contains Power
My name is Alex Petkas, and in The Cost of Glory, I present you with the best stories, analyses and takeaways, from the greatest and most influential figures from Greco-Roman antiquity.