Abstract

This paper discusses ancient Romans’ auto-stereotypes and hetero-stereotypes, which are respectively the way they identify themselves and other peoples. Organized thematically, the sections center around the thesis that stereotypes were influenced by and in turn influenced Rome’s historical development. They unfold to address virtus and benevolent conqueror as two major auto-stereotypes and Greeks as a major group to which major hetero-stereotypes direct. The essay refers to primary texts in an attempt to reveal the psychology behind stereotypes, and points out their dynamic nature. Its major arguments are that virtus and the conception of justice in conquests both have stabilizing effects on Rome’s politics; the evolution of Roman view towards Greece reflects manipulation of individuals as well as historical contexts.

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