Another week in Rome, which means time for another blog. Every week in Rome is like hearing the Beatles for the first time; it inspires, and sparks imagination. Which brings me to my question, I am to answer this week. The question consists of a quote by a journalist named H.V. Morton. He says the history of Rome is both "exhilarating and oppressive for the traveler." I really could'nt say it better myself, the history of Rome is such an interesting topic, and one could go on about how great it is. However, enough about how great Rome is; the question then asks, "In what ways have I found Rome exhilarating and oppressive?"
This is a really interesting question because, all week we've heard about how great Rome was and that they created some of the greatest structures; but I never thought of the overpowering side of the story. After doing some research about ancient Rome; I found out that alot of powerful people were murdered. This was a surprise to me because after Augustus, leaders became power hungry. This oppressive side shows that Rome had many problems, and was not as perfect as eveyone thought it was. If Rome would have had a structured civilization who knows what they could have achieved.
Now for the easy part of the question, what did I find exhilarating about Rome's history; and the real question is; where do I start? Should I start with the great structures they created? Or maybe, how great the food is here? Or even the modern inventions they created. All of these things are so important that choosing one would be wrong.
So after a long debate I decided to choose the italian way of life to be exhilirating. The reason I think this is because they live a fast, slow paced life. You may be wondering how can you live like that; they're completely opposite? I was wondering the same thing until I really stopped and looked; unless you did the same, you really would'nt notice it any other way. The italians take pride in their history and culture so when it comes to appreciating it, they slow down and relax to enjoy the art and history of their ancestors. There is no rush when enjoying the great Statue of David. However, on the flip side, this is when it is time to work and travel; it is as though someone pushed the fast forward button. It seems like everyone is in a hurry in Termini; or any train station for that matter. Whether they are trying to catch a train, or just getting some Gelato; it is a fast pace walk that will get them there.
There really are no words to describe Rome. It is a wonderful and exciting city, that has so much to offer. Whether you want to enjoy history, food, or modern living, R0me has it all.
Carlo,
ReplyDeleteWhat a great post. The best part was about your comment considering what Rome could have achieved if all they had not been presented with all their problems. I myself often wonder what they could have done if they stayed in power, but obviously all good things must come to an end eventually.
The fast, slow pace life is an interesting expression. I definitely relate to this because I always here Italians described as laid back people who don't worry about time. However, when you go out on the roads it is pure mayhem. People will go three wide on a one lane street. It's ridiculous.
Chase,
ReplyDeleteI think you did a fantastic job describing the Italian way of life. Having a Italian native as one of our leaders helps us to understand how much they really do appreciate their culture and history of their country.
Chase,
ReplyDeleteI really do agree with the fact that Italians are both fast and slow paced. People just have to look at the way they drive. They can be the craziest drivers not even close to stopping for pedestrians and honking if the person in front of them doesnt go at green, but when they eat and talk they love to relax. They could sit and talk for hours and just sit back and relax and enjoy life, friends and family.
I also see what you are saying about the history of Rome. How could we find the ruins so fascinating when really they were based on such hateful things. The ruins have seen deception, murder, and torture. The Romans could be really brutal especially after the fall of the republic of Rome, but is that not what made Rome so good and powerful?